Olive restaurant in Hawker reopens after arson attacks

One of two restaurants in Canberra targeted in arson attacks has reopened.

The Yianoulakis family’s two Olive restaurants, in Hawker and Mawson, were destroyed by deliberately lit blazes in March.

Hawker, which was significantly damaged but not totally destroyed like the Mawson premises, has now been relaunched.

"We want to say a huge thank you for the support, the well wishes and for sticking by us," Dimitri Yianoulakis told the Canberra Times.

"It's just so good to be loved in the community, it's a real confidence boost."

The relaunch of Hawker restaurant includes a new layout with "more of a Mediterranean feel" and "rustic flair".

"We're just so relieved and ecstatic to be getting back and doing what we do best," he said.

While investigations into the fires remain ongoing, the family was in talks to relaunch Mawson restaurant.

Sheridan Randall, 25^th July 2019