Owning a restaurant sounds alluring and fun but starting and running an attractive and successful one is hard work. Alexx Antaeus of Opa! shares that sentiment.
The Greek-born, New York-based restaurateur describes the challenges of opening and operating Jamaica’s first and only Greek restaurant as mostly financial but he has managed to create an environment that not only exclaims excitement but maintains the classy and comfortable dining setting. As a Jamaican visiting Opa! you must be willing to try new things as it relates to foods and their flavours.
The menu is created using Greek terminology but not to worry, descriptions are provided in English as well as clear explanations by the pleasant servers. Among the dishes specially selected from the Kyria Piata (main dishes) by Alexx was Gourounpoulo (slow-roasted pork loin), Kokkinisto (browned tenderloin beef served with penne pasta) and Psari Sharas (grilled fish) – all of which were tantalizing main course treats. Of course these were served after the Mezedes (appetizers) that are known to toy with the minds of curious food-lovers. Of the appetizers, Spanakopita, a dish with a ‘Jamaican twist on a Greek classic’, chicken skewers, Octapodi (grilled octopus) and a serving of Greek dips noted as Pikilia are the top picks of customers.
It may be hard to decide on your order but the wait staff is willing to help you with making the final decision. Most importantly, Alexx Antaeus prefers to liaise with his customers, which he tries to do by being present on most nights and getting to know each individual. You will be amazed at how much you can learn about a person over a meal or a glass of wine. Pause to mention – Opa’s bar boasts a diverse wine list! This includes Alexx’s private selection that has been dubbed ‘the million dollar’ wine collection counting a 1986 Chateau Lafite Bordeaux.
Food as well as a healthy culinary lifestyle is one of the main focuses in Greek culture. There is an option for every foodie, meat-lover or vegetarian all of which is prepared fresh and include the three crucial ingredients of Greek cuisine: olive oil, lemon juice and oregano.
It is also customary for persons to participate in plate smashing on celebratory occasions at Opa! It is a part of Greek tradition to celebrate life, signify the avoidance of obstacles and practiced for good luck. So for your next birthday or get-together make a reservation and join in the gastronomic splendors of Greek cuisine.
The doors open at 4pm and close at 12am. It is guaranteed, diners will leave Opa! with a sense of satisfaction and knowledge of the Greek culture.
Have you been to Opa? If so tell us how the food was and please remember to share the article
Share this post:
Owning a restaurant sounds alluring and fun but starting and running an attractive and successful one is hard work. Alexx Antaeus of Opa! shares that sentiment.
The Greek-born, New York-based restaurateur describes the challenges of opening and operating Jamaica’s first and only Greek restaurant as mostly financial but he has managed to create an environment that not only exclaims excitement but maintains the classy and comfortable dining setting. As a Jamaican visiting Opa! you must be willing to try new things as it relates to foods and their flavours.
The menu is created using Greek terminology but not to worry, descriptions are provided in English as well as clear explanations by the pleasant servers. Among the dishes specially selected from the Kyria Piata (main dishes) by Alexx was Gourounpoulo (slow-roasted pork loin), Kokkinisto (browned tenderloin beef served with penne pasta) and Psari Sharas (grilled fish) – all of which were tantalizing main course treats. Of course these were served after the Mezedes (appetizers) that are known to toy with the minds of curious food-lovers. Of the appetizers, Spanakopita, a dish with a ‘Jamaican twist on a Greek classic’, chicken skewers, Octapodi (grilled octopus) and a serving of Greek dips noted as Pikilia are the top picks of customers.
It may be hard to decide on your order but the wait staff is willing to help you with making the final decision. Most importantly, Alexx Antaeus prefers to liaise with his customers, which he tries to do by being present on most nights and getting to know each individual. You will be amazed at how much you can learn about a person over a meal or a glass of wine. Pause to mention – Opa’s bar boasts a diverse wine list! This includes Alexx’s private selection that has been dubbed ‘the million dollar’ wine collection counting a 1986 Chateau Lafite Bordeaux.
Food as well as a healthy culinary lifestyle is one of the main focuses in Greek culture. There is an option for every foodie, meat-lover or vegetarian all of which is prepared fresh and include the three crucial ingredients of Greek cuisine: olive oil, lemon juice and oregano.
It is also customary for persons to participate in plate smashing on celebratory occasions at Opa! It is a part of Greek tradition to celebrate life, signify the avoidance of obstacles and practiced for good luck. So for your next birthday or get-together make a reservation and join in the gastronomic splendors of Greek cuisine.
The doors open at 4pm and close at 12am. It is guaranteed, diners will leave Opa! with a sense of satisfaction and knowledge of the Greek culture.
Have you been to Opa? If so tell us how the food was and please remember to share the article
Share this post: