Now Open: Ithaka Is South Bank's New Riverside Greek Pop-Up Restaurant and Bar in Aquitaine's Old Digs

If your tastebuds are feasting on taramasalata, ouzo-cured kingfish, loukoumades and Greek coffee martinis, and your eyes can spy water at the same time, will you feel like you're in the Mediterranean? Making a date with newcomer Ithaka is the best way in Brisbane to find out. The Greek eatery and bar's menu is now on offer at South Bank, where it has made its home in Aquitaine's former space. You mightn't be kicking back in the Ionian Islands, but this venture from Mantle Group Hospitality wants to treat you to the next best thing.

"Summer is all about outdoor dining, and what's better than spending a few hours sharing beautiful local seafood and the vibrant, fresh flavours of Greek food alongside friends and family over lunch or dinner," said Mantle Group Hospitality Venue Manager Ian Robertson about Brisbane's latest addition.

"Although Ithaka is a pop-up, we wanted to create a dining experience that felt like it nestled into the neighbourhood comfortably and we think this will be the perfect complement to South Bank's buzzy hospitality precinct."

As Robertson mentioned, Ithaka is around for a good time, not a long time, making the most of Brisbane's summer weather with a seafood-heavy menu and cocktails featuring Greek spirits. Al fresco dining and drinking is at the heart of the 300-square-metre restaurant and bar's setup, alongside those river views, plus bites and beverages that will hopefully get you in a holiday mood.

The 158-seater also boasts a 20-person private dining space, should you be looking for a venue for a special occasion in the coming months. Either way, the Greek vibes also come via olive and fruit trees, plus thyme and rosemary aromas.

From the food selection, Mantle Group Hospitality Executive Chef Deniz Coskun's traditional-meets-modern dishes include spanakopita; prawns with chilli, garlic, ouzo and lemon; roasted snapper done with mussels, fennel, chilli and oregano; and baklava and galaktobourekon for dessert. As long as you're dining with another person, you also have three set menus to choose from, ranging from $75–95 a head, and each taking the hassle of choosing out of your meal.

Fancy a spritz made with Corfu Kumquat Campiello? Ithaka's Chiosmopolitan, which uses mastic from Chios as a base? A few Mythos Hellenic Lager brews? You'll find them on the drinks menu. Also among the sips: wines from both Greek and Australian producers.

Find Ithaka at Shop 2, River Quay South Bank, Sidon Street, South Brisbane — open from 11am–2.30pm Tuesday–Friday and 5–9pm Saturday–Sunday.

Images: Markus Ravik.