Ela! Ela!: To Turkey and Greece, Then Home is an intimate exploration of identity, memory and the bonds forged through shared meals. Chef and writer Ella Mittas invites readers to accompany her on a deeply personal voyage as she reconnects with her Greek heritage through the lens of food.
A third-generation Greek-Australian, Ella’s culinary journey began in the bustling home-style restaurants of Istanbul, in Alaçatı and Crete. Starting her journey in Turkey, she uncovered the cultural and political narratives of dishes shaped by the 20th-century population exchange. Through evocative essays, stunning photography, and delicate woodcuts, Ela! Ela! transcends the traditional cookbook format. It reflects on the role of food as a medium for love and friendship, illustrated by touching images of Ella’s family and friends gathered around the table. The book’s final section, titled ‘Home,’ draws on Ella’s Melbourne pop-up food events, where she shared her experiences and dishes inspired by her travels. With its refined aesthetic and heartfelt storytelling, Ela! Ela! is a tribute to the power of food to connect us to our roots, histories, and each other.
