Introducing Akti: A New Greek Dining Experience at Woolloomooloo Finger Wharf
We’re excited to announce the opening of Akti, a modern Greek restaurant that brings a fresh, elevated take on the rich culinary traditions of Greece. Officially opening our doors Friday 6 June at the iconic Woolloomooloo Finger Wharf, Akti marks a new chapter for this historic space, formerly home to Manta, and is set to become Sydney’s premier destination for a Greek dining experience that’s as vibrant and dynamic as the harbour itself.
At the heart of Akti is a deep connection to Greek culture, hospitality, and tradition. The Drakopoulos family, owners of Sydney Restaurant Group, have carefully crafted a space that honours the Greek concept of filoxenia – wholehearted hospitality. This philosophy is at the core of every dining experience at Akti, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere where guests are treated like family.
Leading the kitchen is internationally renowned consulting chef Ntinos Fotinakis, whose talent and passion for Greek cuisine have gained him widespread acclaim. Fotinakis, who previously helmed the successful Greek pop-up at Manta, has curated a menu that reimagines classic Greek dishes with a modern twist. Working alongside him is head chef Robert Judd, whose experience at Hellenika and SK Steak & Oyster brings a refined approach to Greek-inspired flavours.
The menu features a delightful blend of traditional favourites and contemporary creations, with an emphasis on fresh Australian seafood. Highlights include Ntinos mezze: Taramasalata with smoked yuzu, tzatziki, and melitzanosalata (roasted eggplant with garlic, lemon, and olive oil), Blue-eye crudo: A Greek twist on ceviche with passionfruit, chilli, cucumber, and onion, Moussaka croquette: A deep-fried reinvented take on the classic moussaka, Slow-roasted lamb shoulder: Presented tableside, with smoked rosemary for a theatrical dining experience
“Greek cuisine is all about nostalgia and memory,” says Judd. “In Sydney, we’re seeing a growing appreciation for Greek food, and the harbourside location of Akti makes it the perfect setting to share this experience with the city.”
To complement the incredible food, Akti boasts a beverage program that celebrates Greek wines, alongside a carefully curated selection of domestic and international wines. The cocktail list, created by mixologist Nicola Drakopoulos and Fotinakis, offers a creative mix of classics and signature drinks. Try the Meet Me At Akti – a refreshing combination of Aperol, limoncello, clarified guava, and pistachio, or the Kalimera, Baby, a tzatziki-inspired cocktail featuring dill vodka, cucumber, mint, and Greek yoghurt.
For those seeking something savory, the Before 9 martini is a perfect choice, with EVOO fat-washed vodka, clarified celery, cherry tomato, Kalamata olives, and spices.
The venue design, overseen by Perry Drakopoulos, combines coastal accents with a colour palette inspired by an Aegean sunset – soft pinks, plums, and ivory. The dining room offers a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere, perfect for long meals and social gatherings. For a more intimate experience, guests can enjoy the private dining room with stunning floor-to-ceiling views of the harbour.
For a casual yet stylish setting, head to Baraki (Greek for ‘small bar’), where you can unwind with a drink and share meze in a laid-back atmosphere. Whether you're dining with family, enjoying drinks with friends, or hosting a special event, Akti offers the perfect space to relax, eat, and enjoy the beautiful Sydney Harbour.
Founder Bill Drakopoulos reflects on the significance of the space, “Managing the final chapter of Manta, a Sydney institution for 17 years, was an incredible experience. Now, Akti brings new energy to one of Sydney’s most iconic waterfront locations, where so many Greek migrants first arrived in the 1950s. We are honoured to bring this rich heritage to life in a contemporary way, with a focus on heartfelt hospitality.”
Akti will be open Wednesday to Sunday, from 12pm until late. We invite you to join us at our new harbourside destination for an unforgettable Greek dining experience that celebrates tradition, hospitality, and the stunning Sydney coastline.
We can’t wait to welcome you to Akti – where food, drinks, and memories come together against the backdrop of Sydney’s iconic waterfront.
