PROFILED BY DEGROOTS MEDIAIn 1996, chef Martha Constantinidis and her sister Ann Koimtsidis gave up their day jobs for the dream of owning a simple, local corner store in the quaint community of Fitzroy North. After more than a decade their hospitality and food is still putting a smile on faces. Martha’s scrumptious and ever-evolving menu beautifully merges provincial favourites from a gamut of cuisines with unique twists that are modern and interesting. There are overflowing focaccias, wraps, curries, pita breads stuffed with roast vegetables and creamy cheeses, Moroccan breakfasts and Italian pastries – all served up as the smell of heart-warming home-made soup wafts from the stovetop. Daily dishes are at Martha’s whim and while she modestly claims that despite trying, she can never produce the same thing twice, her culinary passion and masterly knowledge is the common theme that makes her menu so special.
The range of traditional dishes is matched with endearing smiles from staff who welcome all that wander into this delightful space. Looking astonishingly and comfortingly similar to my grandmother’s kitchen, the appropriately family-like hospitality will make The Corner Store a home away from home for regulars and first-timers alike. Sandwiches and wraps start at $5.50 while sit-down mains begin at $13.50.
Frank Trimboli, August 2008
