Former MasterChef contestant turned successful entrepreneur, Christos Georgakis, has been making waves with his charming Welsh deli, The Gower Deli. Despite being open for less than a year, the deli has garnered a loyal following and a string of awards, cementing its reputation as a culinary gem in Swansea.
Inspired by his childhood in Athens, Greece, where he grew up surrounded by local food produce, Georgakis had always dreamt of opening his own deli. Together with his partner, Leanne Richards, he turned this dream into reality on August 24, 2024, when they opened The Gower Deli on Southgate Road in Gower, Swansea.
The ethos behind The Gower Deli is to showcase locally sourced Welsh ingredients alongside unique Greek flavours that are not commonly found in the city. Georgakis’s vision was to create a space that reflects the nostalgia of his childhood, where quality products and a sense of community are paramount.
Georgakis shared, “I have been talking about wanting to open something like this since I was a young kid. This is exactly what I’ve always dreamed of.” The deli prides itself on offering a mix of Welsh, Greek, French, Italian, and Spanish products, ensuring a diverse and high-quality selection for customers.
With a focus on keeping prices accessible to all, Georgakis personally oversees the menu, which features a range of dishes inspired by his heritage and childhood memories. From traditional Welsh breakfasts with a twist to Greek-inspired soups and sandwiches, each item on the menu tells a story and aims to delight customers with its unique flavours.
One standout feature of The Gower Deli is its attention to detail, evident even in the coffee mugs designed by Gower Ceramics. Made with material from North Gower beaches and featuring an imprint of a Penclawdd cockle, these mugs encapsulate the deli’s commitment to sustainability and local craftsmanship.
Despite its relatively short time in the industry, The Gower Deli has already received accolades, including a Great Taste Award for its moussaka and the title of the best cafe in the southwest at the Best of Welsh Business Awards. This recognition is a testament to Georgakis’s dedication to offering exceptional food and experiences to his customers.
Looking ahead, Georgakis envisions expanding The Gower Deli brand with potential headquarters for food production, additional locations, and an online presence. With a clear business plan in place, he remains focused on creating a welcoming space where locals and visitors alike can enjoy delicious food and warm hospitality.
The Gower Deli is open seven days a week, welcoming patrons to experience a taste of Georgakis’s culinary passion and childhood nostalgia. As the deli continues to attract a diverse clientele, its future looks promising with plans for growth and a commitment to providing unique and memorable dining experiences.