A new Greek-style eatery has opened on Terralong Street, expanding Kiama’s local dining scene just in time for the busy summer season.

The restaurant officially opened on 21 December 2025, operated by business partners Nowshad Rasel and MD Shahod, who commute from Sydney’s south-west to run the Kiama location.

Rasel said the decision to open in Kiama was driven by the town’s strong tourism appeal and supportive local community.

“Kiama is one of the best tourist places in the region,” he said. “A lot of people from Sydney come this way rather than going into the city, so we thought it was a good place to start something new.”

Souvla & Grill focuses on Mediterranean cuisine with a Greek influence, offering items such as souvlaki, gyros, meat platters, and a range of grilled meats. Rasel said maintaining food quality was a top priority.

“We try to keep everything premium grade, especially the meat,” he said. “It’s expensive at the moment and small businesses are struggling, but quality is very important to us.”

The opening coincided with the Christmas and New Year holiday period, which Rasel said resulted in a strong start.

“From the 21st of December through to early January, it was very busy with tourists and locals,” he said.

“Now it’s a bit slower, but weekends and long weekends are still strong.” Rasel is looking forward to the upcoming Australia Day weekend for more foot traffic.

He noted that trade tends to be busier at night, with tourists and local families supporting the restaurant.

While this is the partners’ first business in Kiama, they already operate several food venues in Sydney, including kebab, Turkish burgers, and chicken shops.

Compared to Sydney, Rasel said business in Kiama fluctuates more.

“Sydney is very constant because there are so many locals,” he said. “Here, one week can be very good, then it slows down, then picks up again.”

Future plans for the Terralong Street venue include introducing a breakfast menu, extending trading hours, and adding Uber Eats delivery.

Rasel said the Kiama community has been welcoming, with support from locals, a visit from MP Katelin McInerney, and many early customers already returning as regulars.

“The locals are very friendly and supportive,” he said. “We already have repeat customers, which means they like the food. Without local support, small businesses can’t survive.”