Hot Greek doughnuts, cold nutella drinks set to shake up southeast industrial zone
A popular doughnut baker has taken a leap of faith, expanding during a global pandemic. While the travelling side of the business has ground to a halt, the European deliciousness will now be available in a new store in Moorabbin.
Inner South
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The owner of a booming one-stop Greek doughnut shop won’t let the coronavirus outbreak get in the way of delectable desserts, opening a new store in a southeast industrial hub.
St Gerry’s Moorabbin store launch falls on the brand’s six-year anniversary, seven years since owner Dean Giannakis brainstormed his business idea beachside on a gorgeous island west of Greece.
“While travelling Europe I saw these little doughnuts being made at a festival in Kefalonia, where my family is from,” Mr Giannakis said.
“I thought why not write up a business model on the beach for when I return to Melbourne, as something to do on the side of my corporate job.”
But the 38-year-old Caulfield South man quickly traded suit and tie for apron and a rolling pin, resigning from his old job and building the St Gerry’s empire.
The fluffy doughnut delights — best served with honey, walnut and cinnamon or lashings of nutella — have since captured Melburnians at the Thornbury and Springvale locations as well as food trucks at the South Melbourne market, Moomba Festival and the Royal Melbourne Show.
Mr Giannakis said his usual food truck bookings at a number of universities and festivals were cancelled due to the coronavirus outbreak but was certain the Moorabbin store opening would be a success with late-night isolation cravings and the help of food delivery apps.
The shop is located inside the also recently-opened barbecue restaurant and cellar Wood and Bone — making the perfect dinner destination for those looking to tuck into a hearty meal followed by Mr Giannakis’ sweet treats.
“Wood and Bone is a modern grill and barbecue destination with slow cooked meats, burgers and craft beer,” Mr Giannakis said.
“They work with premium meats from Australian farms and only purchase seasonal seafood with locally grown vegetables.”
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Mr Giannakis’ dessert bar includes 15 types of handmade doughnuts, all of which can be washed down with creamy nutella and salted caramel milkshakes.
“I don’t want to let the brand stop because of coronavirus … in the same breath, people are stuck at home wanting good comfort food,” he said.
“If you’re after something sweet late at night while playing PlayStation or watching Netflix, why wouldn’t you jump on a delivery app or come in the shop to try out some hot doughnuts.”
St Gerry’s Moorabbin is located inside Wood and Bone restaurant, 4 Tabbita St, Moorabbin.