We're in The Age! A Heartfelt Thank You for an Incredible Review
- Lena Chernenok
- Sep 16
- 2 min read
We are speechless, humbled, and absolutely beaming with pride. Today, we are so incredibly honoured to be featured in The Age Good Food , earning a score of 14/20 and a "Critics' Pick" mention in a beautiful review that has truly touched our hearts.
When we opened Otakoï Ukrainian Restaurant, our dream was to create a space that felt like a warm embrace - a place to share the authentic flavours and hospitality of our homeland. To see that dream reflected so perfectly in such a respected publication is a moment we will never forget.
The review begins with words that took our breath away:
"I walk into a lot of restaurants. I can’t remember the last time I was transported like this."
This single sentence captures the very soul of what we hope to offer every guest who walks through our doors. But it’s not just about the space; it’s about the memories and emotions that our food evokes. We were so moved by this beautiful compliment:
"The food, oh the food! It’s so good. The borshch (beetroot soup) has made a dozen people cry because it’s just like babusya’s."
Reading this is a powerful reminder of why we started this journey. Every dish we prepare is a story. However, the story of Otakoï is also about people. It's about community and providing a new start, which is why this next part of the review meant so much to us:
"One of the most amazing things about Otakoi is that it’s providing employment for 10 new Ukrainian arrivals, everyone from the teen sisters who arrive after school to fold dumplings to the grandmother who comes in the mornings to clean."
This review belongs not just to us, but to our incredible team who pour their hearts into their work, and to you, our wonderful guests, who have filled our restaurant with so much life and support from day one. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being on this journey with us.
We invite you to read the full article at the link below.
With immense gratitude, Hanna, Micheal and the entire Otakoï team.
A quick note: Good Food reviews are booked anonymously and paid for independently. A restaurant can’t pay for a review or inclusion in the Good Food Guide. We are incredibly honoured to have earned this recognition.
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