06/02/2026
It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we share the passing of Peter Protoulis, the founder, father and guiding force behind The Greek Fisherman Restaurant.
Peter was a true pioneer of the South African restaurant industry. His journey began in 1963 with the opening of one of the country’s first steakhouses, The Tomcat in Killarney, later expanding to Sea Point and Claremont. After time spent in the shipping industry and with the Steakery group, his passion for hospitality drew him back to what he loved most. Decades of experience, instinct, and grit led to great success, including award-winning years at his Greek restaurant Delfini in Yeoville during the late 1980s. In the early 1990s, this journey brought him to the Waterfront, where he opened The Greek Fisherman with his wife Georgina in 1992, alongside what remains today his City Grill Steakhouse.
Peter was larger than life in every sense. He had a sharp wit, an infectious laugh, and a way of connecting with people that made everyone feel seen, whether supplier, staff member, or guest. His booming presence, joyful banter, and unapologetic character will be deeply missed. He broke rules, swore freely, and somehow always got away with it, because that was Peter.
He will be forever loved and remembered by his children, Anthony, Viron, and Corina, daughter in law Natalie; his nephews Micky and Paolo; his sister Beba; Georgina; his grandchildren Pano and Ariana, and the many people whose lives he touched through his work, friendship, and unmistakable spirit.
May his soul rest in peace, and may his legacy live on in every table shared, story told, and glass raised in his honour.
