The food was excellent, especially the prawns and the chickpea salad, which were both fresh and full of flavour. The only downside was that our table was in a very loud area, which made it hard to talk.Prices were reasonable for the quality, and overall we had a great time. We’ll definitely be coming back.

Delicious food, warm and welcoming atmosphere. Phenominal service from Erin. Looking forward to returning.

I had a truly memorable dinner at The Pontian Club on Smith Street, Collingwood, easily one of my favourite Greek spots in Melbourne now. From the second we stepped in, the place felt like a warm gathering among friends. The décor is charmingly homespun, with exposed brick walls and pieces of repurposed furniture giving it a lived in, social club feel. The octopus was incredibly tender, lightly charred, and so full of Greek flavour, truly cooked over fire in the best way. Service was friendly and relaxed staff really made us feel at home. The vibe: laid back and welcoming, like you’re dining at a mate’s place rather than a restaurant. It’s great value for food this good and full of heart, not just style. Overall, The Pontian Club is a hidden gem with incredible Greek flavours, a warm atmosphere, and a no fuss, thoughtful approach to dining. I’ll definitely be back to try more of that menu.

Intrigued by the positive reviews and curious choice of name, ended up trying this place out Sunday night. Verdict: another rip-off to be added to the list of so-called Greek restaurants unable (or likely unwilling) to put into practice the Hellenic values of “philoxenia” and “philotimo.” What’s more, despite the culturally loaded name, this is not an authentic establishment representative of the Pontian community, with the dearth of Greek staff, inspiration, spirit and feel evident from the moment you walk in. Concerning food, we were two people and the attendant recommended we try their house-made, seemingly special, bread. To my disappointment, we were brought a quarter (or at best half) of what was a dense baguette. Ludicrous to expect two diners to share this and scandalous to pass this bread off as Greek or typical of what one would find in Greece. Moreover, the fava dish was served cold (in Greece always served warm) and meats we ordered (“for sharing”) were just meagre samples of grilled chicken and lamb, with nothing particularly Greek about them. Regarding the name, I enquired about the restaurant’s origins and inspiration, wanting to know what association it might have to the Pontian or wider Greek community. The two attendants I asked, separately, were both unable to speak to the name, simply mentioning some pop-up once active in a neighbouring suburb and giving names of chefs which were anything but Greek or Greek-sounding. This “club”, having nothing to do with “philoxenia” and “philotimo” with its pretentious ambience and inflated prices, does not honour the Greek community, and use of the hallowed Pontian name, with total disregard for this people’s identity, history, and values (not to mention cuisine), is sheer cultural appropriation.

Amazing in every way. Every single dish was a knockout from the bread to the small plates to the mains. Great flavour, perfect seasoning. The venue is cosy and the service is warm. Can’t wait to go back.