Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Philotimos is a home-grown Greek restaurant located at Dar Wasl Mall, in the heart of Jumeirah, Dubai. The concept is the soul-child of Co-founders Spero Panagakis and Alexander Stumpf, who have made their mark on the market with award-winning venue BB Social Dining in Dubai, Riyadh and soon Abu Dhabi.
Literally, the name Philotimos means “love of honour” but is also stands for an appreciation of people or simply, a humble experience of life.
The cuisine celebrates authentic Greek tradition, by sourcing the healthiest ingredients, using local produce and maintaining a seasonal menu that supports local produce and local farms.
“Our overall approach to sustainability is reinforced by our love of community. Philotimos promises to bring the communities of Dubai a cuisine full of Greek traditions, with the simple yet intense flavours that you would expect from a local village, when passing through, or simply going to visit family and friends,” explains Spero Panagakis, the (very Greek) Co-founder of the brand.
The menu has been broken down into two sections: Meze and Grill. Meze are served in smaller portions, traditionally known as “Mesedopoleo” (meze house), enabling patrons to try more than one dish amongst friends and family. Combined with the live-fire Grill, Philotimos boasts a wide array of traditional meats, specialties from local fisheries and a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes.
“The similarity between the Greek and Arab culture became clearer and clearer as we were building the concept,” explains Chef Alexander Stumpf, “from the sharing style to the love of simple, perfectly seasoned, family-friendly dishes.”
The interior design was meant to reflect the warmth and joy of getting together over a meal. It was also executed respecting the history of Greek restaurants across the country, from the beaches of Mykonos to historical Plaka in Athens and the lush Greek countryside. Whitewashed walls, lovely blue shutters expressing a typical local home, stone-washed flooring and colorful landscaping set the stage for Philotimos.
There will be no tablecloth, keeping things simple and enhanced with bright and colourful plateware to fit the joyful, honest and passionate style of service. The restaurant, designed by YDesign whilst the branding and graphic design was developed by Andreas Brooks, was thought out to bring cultures, families and friends together in a casual, welcoming environment where true Greek culinary creativity can be felt whatever time of day.
Lastly, the team at Philotimos highlights the collaboration with Huna and their gratefulness for the support of their platform, which encourages the launch of home-grown brands in the region. “Here at Philotimos, we respect the land that gave us our cuisine and from our philotimia, we hope you enjoy the experience again and again and take part in our journey. Kali Orexi!,” exclaims Spero Panagakis.
