Greek food lovers, get excited: Black Sheep Restaurants has announced their latest new opening, Artemis & Apollo, a Greek taverna which is slated to open in Wan Chai this autumn. Serving up fuss-free, home-style Greek dishes, Artemis & Apollo follows in the footsteps of the recently opened Fukuro and the prolific restaurant group’s first international opening, Canton Disco, which recently debuted inside the EDITION hotel in Shanghai.
As always, BSR’s newest opening looks to recreate a distinct facet of a country’s food culture; this time, they’re taking inspiration from the unhurried way of dining which makes up much of life up and down the Mediterranean coastline. The unpretentious spot pays homage to the humble taverna’s role as an integral part of Greek’s working class culture, when historically cooks — unable to entertain in their small homes — would take to the tavernas as communal gathering spots for sharing a leisurely meal at the end of a long day.
Like BSR’s other Wan Chai establishment, Le Garçon Saigon, Artemis & Apollo seeks to fit in seamlessly with the communal vibe of the Star Street precinct, decked out in white-washed walls with domed ceilings, walnut wood furniture and an olive green colour palette — complete with a foliage-lined alfresco courtyard in the back.
As for the menu, guests can expect a return to basics with Greek produce playing a starring role, from fruity olive oils to fine cheeses and complex wines. A selection of family-style mezzes kick off the meal — think fava bean mash and taramasalata, or creamy mullet roe dip served with warm bread for dipping — followed by simple seafood dishes, hearty spit-roasted meats including chicken and pork souvlaki, and larger cuts such as the sumptuous charcoal-roasted Tasmanian lamb. To pair, the wine list will champion less-appreciated Greek wines from the region, with the selection hand-picked by the team during their recent travels to Athens.
