There’s a new reason to shout Opá! this November. Time Out Market Cape Town is welcoming Opá! Greek Street Food, a fresh, flavour-packed kitchen from Chef Callan Austin, the award-winning talent behind Stellenbosch fine-dining destination DUSK.
Best known for his inventive, story-driven approach to flavour, Austin is channelling his decade of experience into something more relaxed - and fun.
“When I started in the industry, I was dead-set on fine dining,” he says. “But over time, things have evolved and I realised I wanted to cook food that’s abundant, delicious and simple. There is a phrase I use, excuse my language, but cooking food you just want to eat the F*ck out of,” he adds.
"Fine dining has many moving parts. It's a lot to manage, compared to something a bit more casual. The person in charge of creativity finds it becomes a chore instead of a passionate hobby. I had serious creative block a few months ago. I just started cooking a lot at home, cooking for myself and my missus - and I fell in love with cooking simple food, which made me more creative at Dusk too."
ICYMI: Summer is Served: Time Out Market Cape Town launches hot new menu
At Opá!, that passion comes alive in a menu bursting with sun-drenched Mediterranean flavour. The menu is set hero open gyros with braised lamb shoulder or smoky chicken (plus a coal-roasted aubergine option for vegetarians), crispy Greek fries, and sumac-spiced tzatziki amongst a delicious selection of sauces and toppings, as the dishes are layered with roasted tomato relish, mint, and pomegranate molasses - simple ingredients, elevated through finesse and flair.
There’s also aubergine moussaka, rose-syrup baklava, and Greek iced coffee with hints of vanilla and tonka bean for those needing a sweet or caffeinated fix.
Every dish is made with Halaal ingredients and a playful attention to detail that will reflect the Opá! Spirit.
“I initially considered the move when the market first opened, but the timing wasn't right. I've seen its success this second time around and didn't want to miss the opportunity," Austin adds.
"I’ve always loved Mediterranean food. There’s room to do something fresh and creative, beyond what you can do with pizza or burgers - to dress up the food with more finesse.”
Austin is joined by Head Chef and operations manager Daniel Martin, who brings experience from some of Cape Town’s top kitchens, including Salsify, FYN, and Gåte at Quoin Rock.
So, while there won’t be any plate-smashing - the Opá! Energy will be alive and kicking, thanks to bold flavours, plenty of heart, and the lively hum of the Time Out Market floor.
It’s a big year for Austin, marking ten years in the industry and his first solo venture. With accolades including Eat Out’s 3-Star rating, Best New Restaurant, and LUXE Awards Chef of the Year, as well as recognition on the global stage at The Best Chef Awards, his move into the bustling heart of Time Out Market Cape Town is a welcome move and perfectly timed.
Expect fresh, honest street food with Mediterranean soul - generous, flavourful, and downright lekker.
Opá! opens 1 November 2025 at Time Out Market Cape Town.
Sign up to Time Out's free newsletter for expert recommendations on new things to do, see, eat and drink in the Mother City. You can also follow Time Out Cape Town on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok!