Australian social entrepreneur Simon Griffiths – best known for co-founding Who Gives A Crap with two friends in 2012; has proved that you can create an eco-friendly toilet paper brand with a social backbone.
The CEO now splits his time between LA and the Mornington Peninsula.
He spoke to The Write Drop for our At the Bar series and share some fab tips for wineries down the Peninsula.
MY CITY
Melbourne is technically my city, but for the last decade I’ve been between Melbourne, LA and the Mornington Peninsula. I’m in LA less often these days. Spending time in the US over the last decade really made my family and I appreciate Melbourne (and Australia more generally) – we’ve got great hospitality, a beautifully laid-back lifestyle, and easy access to some of the best nature in the world.
FAVOURITE FOOD MEMORY
For special occasions, I’m a big fan of Tedesca Osteria in Mainridge. We had a small lunch there for my wife’s 40th birthday, with lots of fond food memories. The restaurant focuses on exceptional local produce, with much of it coming from their onsite garden. They combine flavours in ways I would never think of, and the menu changes almost daily. Before Tedesca, the owner ran Gertrude Street Enoteca in Fitzroy. Who Gives A Crap’s office is just off Gertrude Street, so I often wish Gertrude Enoteca was still there!
FAVOURITE BAR
Bar Holiday. After Gertrude Street Enoteca closed, this was the low-key European-style bar that Melbourne needed. They’ve got good food, a great vibe and a simple wine list that never fails. I’ll happily order anything from their wine list, knowing it will be delicious. Bonus points for the awesome playground over the road, and amazing Japanese ice cream next door. It’s a great option for kids and adults alike.
DRINK THAT DESCRIBES YOU
A Tommy’s Margarita. Simple, fresh and a little bit salty. All margaritas are better when they’re served on the rocks, and that’s a non-negotiable with Tommy’s.
BEST HANGOVER CURE
Jumping in the ocean, ideally after a little bit of exercise.
BEST INTERSTATE BAR
More of a restaurant than a bar, but I love Long Chim in Perth. I grew up in Perth and head over there a few times a year for work or to see my parents. On a quick trip, I will often meet Mum and Dad at Long Chim. The drinks list is unique and constantly evolving, and if you have time for a bite, the food is seriously good.
OVERSEAS BAR
The Library Lounge at The Standard Hotel in London. My best guess is that The Standard learnt a lot from its first four properties in the US, which culminated in the creation of The Standard London. The Library Lounge sits just off the hotel lobby and is full of warm colours and incredible vintage designer furniture, making it feel laid-back and homely. The walls are lined with floor-to-ceiling shelves of interesting books, and, of course, the drinks (and toilet paper!) are on point. There’s another bar on the rooftop, but I’ve never felt the need to check it out.
FAVOURITE WINE
Stilvi 2023 Amber Sauvignon Blanc. The wine maker, Tim, used to work at Merricks Store and suggested it when I popped in to grab a bottle. I don’t usually like Australian/Kiwi Sauv Blanc, but this doesn’t taste like a Sauv Blanc – it’s super dry and minerally, and all of my Chardonnay drinking friends really enjoy it. Tim is also a lovely guy, which helps.
FAVOURITE WINERY
I like the quieter wineries with beautiful gardens, like Panton and Ocean Eight in Shoreham. For food, coffee, or to pick up a bottle of wine, I head to Merricks Store – they’re the cellar door for the Elgee Park and Baillieu vineyards, and sell wines from right across the Peninsula.
NEXT DESTINATION
I’m taking my son kayak camping around Moreton Bay at the end of summer – we’ll be kayaking 20kms each day and sleeping on different islands each night. I think adventure holidays with a bit of a mental or physical challenge are a great way to disconnect – and grow. Especially for busy kids, or busy-minded adults.
