Just In: Former Masterchef Judge George Calombaris To Lead Greek Restaurant Alpha

George Calombaris is the latest big-name chef to join Public Hospitality Group. The former Masterchef judge will lead a revamp of CBD Greek diner Alpha next month, taking over from founding chef Peter Conistis.

“Peter Conistis has done amazing things for the profile of Greek cuisine and I feel honoured to be able to continue to evolve Alpha,” Calombaris said in a statement.

Calombaris is set to bring a “lighter, more playful collection of Greek dishes” to the menu, with head chef Alessandro Mandell staying on. The acclaimed team from Maybe Sammy – who joined Public in April last year – will update the cocktail list.

The venue’s interiors will also get a makeover, in addition to a new bar area. The possibility of a karaoke room – not unlike the very fun one at Public’s Paddo cantina El Primo Sanchez – is also on the cards, but is yet to be confirmed.

Public Hospitality acquired Alpha back in December, and has just tapped zero-waste drinks pioneer Matt Whiley (Re–) for a new venue in the La Salut space in Redfern. Last year the Love, Tilly Group sold its stake in La Salut and ended its relationship with Public Hospitality “for the benefit of staff and suppliers”.