This January, The Real Greek is giving guests the chance to kickstart their New Year wellness goals the Mediterranean way by offering all diners a ceremonial shot of Greek extra virgin olive oil on arrival. Dubbed Liquid Gold, the ritual draws on centuries of Greek tradition, celebrating olive oil as a symbol of vitality, health, and heritage.
From 12th – 31st January guests at all The Real Greek sites nationwide, will be offered a shot of olive oil on arrival and will receive a small card explaining: “You’ve just taken Liquid Gold – a 3,000-year-old wellness ritual powered by good fats.” They will also receive 20% off their next visit.
Olive oil has long been the foundation of the Mediterranean diet, known for its health benefits, including supporting gut health, cardiovascular function, and overall wellbeing. The ritual taps into the growing trend of “shot culture” and social wellness moments, offering diners a fun, shareable experience while reinforcing the benefits of good fats.
Consuming extra virgin olive oil, especially as part of a Mediterranean-style diet, has been linked to a range of health benefits. It is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which help lower cholesterol and reduce inflammation, potentially lowering blood pressure. Regular intake has also been proven to promote improved gut microbiota and overall longevity. These benefits are supported by numerous studies that highlight olive oil’s role in disease prevention and healthy living.
The Real Greek’s menu champions the Med lifestyle in every dish, featuring fresh, wholesome ingredients including olives, tzatziki, hummus, prawn souvlaki, chicken, octopus, aubergine, Greek salad and flatbread. Paired with the Liquid Gold ritual, diners can enjoy a full culinary journey rooted in the flavours and health benefits of the Mediterranean diet.
Jordan Hawoth, gastrointestinal physiologist, says: “Extra virgin olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and polyphenols that support a healthy gut microbiome. Combined with the Mediterranean diet – packed with vegetables, legumes, meat, and fish – it’s one of the best ways to nourish your body and promote long-term wellbeing. Taking a ceremonial shot like this is not only rooted in ancient Greek tradition, it’s also one of the biggest wellness trends we expect to see in 2026. The Real Greek’s menu shows how delicious, everyday eating can align with science-backed health benefits.”
The Liquid Gold Reset Ritual will run across all The Real Greek restaurants for two weeks from 12th-31st January. Dine in and kickstart your Mediterranean reset today. For more information, menus, and participating locations, visit: https://www.therealgreek.com
