By Melissa Walsh Photos Yanni
With a vision to bring her own version of Greek culinary experience to the Mornington Peninsula, it wasn’t long before pastry chef Ari Rigogiannis had the plans in place to start her own Pier Café.
With nearly two decades of hospitality experience from Greece as well as some of the best establishments in Melbourne, Ari renovated and fitted out a convenient corner of Rosebud with an inviting modern-Greek décor with outdoor and indoor seating at The Pier Café.
A woman who is not afraid of hard work, Ari soon created a light and bright space out of a formerly tired property to unveil the Pier Café which turned out to be instantly popular.
“We opened over Christmas and it was huge, with big crowds coming in straight away,” said Ari, from the café.
The baptism of fire turned out to be the best thing for the chef, who learnt very quickly how to run a busy café.
“We were instantly popular with cakes, coffees and some favourite drinks and now we are fully licensed and have a full menu,” she said. “We make all our own desserts on the premises with everything from baklava, lemon melts, panacotta with raspberry coulis, galaktoboureko, and macarons. Our menu is constantly evolving, and you are welcome to come here for a coffee or a full meal as we serve lunch and dinner. We have wonderful seafood and a great variety of meals for every taste and budget.”
The Pier Café provides to the Mornington Peninsula region its own unique Greek dining experience with indulgent Greek classics; delicious fresh seafood dishes and, of course, some decadent home-made cakes and desserts. Don’t be surprised if they also feature some ‘themed nights’ showcasing exquisite food from other cultures.
Pier Café is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week.
Pier Café is at 889 Point Nepean Road, Rosebud.
Phone 5910 0540