From a Table Game to a Tradition: Mafia Comes to OhTak Bar

Before Otakoï became a place where Ukrainian food, culture, and community meet in Melbourne, there was something else quietly bringing people together.

A game.

A few years ago - before Otakoï opened its doors — Hanna, the owner of Otakoï, started hosting Mafia games in Melbourne. Not as a business. Not as an “event concept.”Just as a way to connect people.

Different backgrounds. Different accents. Some strangers, some friends-of-friends. Everyone sitting around one table, learning to read each other’s faces, voices, pauses. Laughing. Accusing. Defending. Trusting — and betraying — all in good fun.

Those nights always had the same result: people stayed longer than planned, conversations continued after the game, and strangers left as friends.

Then Otakoï was born.

When Food Became the Centre — But the Spirit Stayed

Otakoï was created as more than a restaurant. It became a place where stories are shared, cultures meet, and people feel welcome — even if they walk in alone.

And while the focus naturally shifted to food, hospitality, and building a home for Ukrainian culture in Melbourne, that original spirit of connection never disappeared.

It just waited for the right moment.

That moment is now.

Mafia Nights at OhTak Bar

We’re happy (and honestly a little nostalgic) to announce that Mafia is coming at OhTak Bar, our hidden bar above Otakoï.

The same game.The same energy.A new chapter.

Mafia at OhTak Bar will be:

• played in English

• fully hosted and guided

• open to first-timers and experienced players

• focused on fun, connection, and atmosphere

No pressure. No awkward icebreakers.Just a table, a game, and people willing to play.

The First Game

📅 Sunday, 15 February

⏰ 3:00 – 6:00 PM

📍 OhTak Bar

And because this is OhTak… the night doesn’t end when the game does.

🔥 After the game, guests are invited to stay for our Sunday BBQ Shashlyk Party — charcoal-grilled skewers, drinks, and relaxed Sunday rooftop vibes.

Game first. Food after. Exactly how Sundays should feel.

Why Mafia, Why Now?

Because in a city as busy as Melbourne, real connection is rare — and valuable.

Because sometimes the best conversations start with a simple game. And because some traditions are too good to leave in the past.

This one is coming back — stronger, warmer, and with a bar upstairs.

🎟️ Spots are limited for the first game.

Whether you come solo or with friends, Mafia will find you anyway.

Welcome back to the table.