Vilamoura on the up and up

Vilamoura has long been regarded as one of Johannesburg finest restaurants, offering cuisine and service beyond reproach. However, it is with Vilamoura's current management team of young and dynamic entrepreneurs that Vilamoura will soar to new heights. The restaurant held a private opening of its newly revamped décor at the Sandton restaurant, with an A-list guest list present, including Miss South Africa Claudia Henkel, socialite Edith Venter, DJ Sasha Martinengo, MC Aki Anastasiou, and the new owners, Greg Nicolaou and Michael Yiallouris.

Michael Yiallouris and Greg Nicolaou, co-owners of the Vilamoura Sandton and Hurlingham restaurants, reminisce on the purchase, "We jumped at the opportunity to buy the restaurants and have identified a gap for both Vilamoura's. With the Sandton branch, we instantly recognised where improvements could be made, one of which was the physical refurbishment that has been recently completed. We wanted to restore the venue to its original glory; to bring the venue back to life." Renovations began in March, and after six weeks of construction, the restaurant had transformed depicting the elegance and contemporary classic décor that the two owners had envisaged. With new flooring, ceilings and the most comfortable chairs in town, one of the biggest and most beneficial changes was to construct two private dining rooms. These provide patrons discretion while still enjoying the majesty of Vilamoura.

Notwithstanding the physical attributes, Vilamoura has always been well known for its fine cuisine with shellfish as its speciality. Michael and Greg have maintained and added to this aspect, and are convinced that Vilamoura's offering to each guest is an unmatched experience from the moment they are welcomed into this magical dwelling, starting with the ambiance and followed through with the dining and finest selection of wine, champagne and cognacs. The exemplary service delights patrons who are accustomed to aristocratic venues, and delighting new customers, encouraging them to visit for that next special occasion.

Michael explains, "We have adjusted the pricing and believe that the standard is set now; quality dining at relative prices. Our guests can expect to see improvements in all aspects of our offering."

Both very hands on owners, Michael has been in the hospitality industry for close on 15 years and included in his stable of restaurants are the eight popular Piatto's of Mediterranean cuisine. Greg has owned various restaurants, as well as running an internationally recognised café during his time in Europe. They believe their partnership is made up with synergies of experience, common goals and hard work.

Greg will often be seen on the Vilamoura floor, personally welcoming guests. He accounts for this, "It is important for guests to see the owners. Interacting with customers and my love of the industry is my motivation. I am thriving on the challenge turning Vilamoura into the most sought after venue and maintaining the standards of fulfilling and exceeding my guests' expectations."

Vilamoura's restaurant is able to hold 190 guests and boasts a cigar lounge. The adjacent Vilamoura Supper Club's live entertainment offers live entertainment on Wednesday through Saturday nights for an elegant dinner and dance experience. This venue can be closed for private or corporate functions and can comfortably seat up to 120 guests.