By Marie-Antoinette Issa.
For more than two decades, Nicole Konstandakopoulos has been the beating heart of one of Melbourne’s most beloved Greek institutions, Stalactites.
As the powerhouse behind both Stalactites and Hella Good, she has kept the souvlaki sizzling while modernising and expanding her family’s culinary empire.
Carving out a leadership role in the male-dominated world of hospitality wasn’t served to her on a silver platter - she had to roll up her sleeves and prove she could take the heat.
As part of our International Women’s Day series, we delve into Nicole’s ethos and what keeps her in the industry:
Nicole stepped into the business in 2001 at just 21, shouldering the weight of her family’s legacy.
"Being both young and a woman meant I had to prove myself in a business and industry that was largely male-dominated and older in age,” she explains. "Women in leadership often face the added challenge of constantly having to demonstrate their capability, strength and expertise to be seen as equals to their male counterparts.”
With Stalactites operating 24/7 for decades, Nicole found herself juggling the fiery demands of hospitality while keeping her personal life from going up in smoke.
"Finding a balance that worked for everyone, including relationships and obligations, was quite challenging,” she admits. However, she quickly learned that success isn’t a solo act.
"Building a strong, capable and supportive team made all the difference. Empowering my team to make decisions and being there to support them was key to creating that trust and ensuring the business ran smoothly.”
Despite a stint in the corporate world, hospitality was always in her DNA. Raised in a home where food was love and the kitchen was command central, Nicole grew up rolling dolmadakia, layering spanakopita and twisting koulourakia alongside her family.
This deep-rooted passion for Greek cuisine became the foundation for her leadership at Stalactites, where she continues to honour tradition, while giving it a contemporary twist.
"The key to Stalactites is authenticity,” she says. "It’s essential to respect and honour the history of the business, not only for my family but also for Melbourne, while also finding ways to introduce new ideas that enhance the experience without compromising what made the restaurant iconic in the first place.”
One way she’s kept the flame burning while staying true to tradition is through the restaurant’s menu. The kitchen is helmed by Dimitra Melios, who has been part of the Stalactites family since 1980.
Her recipes, infused with Southern Greek influences and inspired by Nicole’s grandmother, Kleo, whose roots trace back to Asia Minor, create a menu that’s both timeless and timely.
Under Nicole’s watchful eye, the menu has also evolved to include more plant-based and vegetarian options - reflecting both her personal values and the changing tastes of modern diners.
Beyond the food, Nicole has made sustainability and inclusivity key ingredients in her business recipe. Stalactites is the only Greek-certified Coeliac-accredited restaurant in Australia, ensuring everyone can pull up a chair at the table regardless of dietary needs.
Sustainability is baked into the business, with biodegradable packaging, waste reduction measures and recycling programs that keep operations as green as a fresh bunch of oregano.
Perhaps her greatest passion is paving the way for other women in hospitality.
"The hospitality industry can be intense, so creating a supportive and inclusive environment for women at Stalactites is something I prioritise,” Nicole shares. "I make a deliberate effort to act as a mentor and provide guidance to the women on my team. I’m always open to offering advice, training, support and assistance to help them grow.”
As a female leader in a traditionally male-heavy industry, Nicole fosters a culture where women feel empowered to share their ideas. She actively encourages the women in her team to step up to the plate and take initiative, while developing their skills in a supportive environment.
"Since hospitality has traditionally been a male-dominated industry, I believe it’s crucial to give women equal opportunities for growth and access to leadership roles.”
For women aspiring to leadership roles in hospitality, Nicole’s advice is clear:
"Know your strengths, foster respectful relationships, nurture and invest back into your loyal and committed staff, lead by example and be resilient. Never be afraid to stand your ground. Passion is contagious and when you truly love what you do, it inspires those around you.”
Under Nicole’s leadership, Stalactites continues to be a cornerstone of Melbourne’s dining scene - a place where authenticity, tradition and progress coexist.
Whether through her commitment to preserving family recipes, her dedication to sustainability or her mentorship of the next generation of hospitality professionals, Nicole has carved out her own space in the industry and continues to inspire women to do the same.
