Tucked away at Neustiftgasse 84, just beyond Vienna’s city center, Saint George is one of those places locals whisper about—the kind you only find when someone lets you in on the secret. “We’re a family here,” says George Muka, who, together with his partner Chrysa Zouzeli, fulfilled a lifelong dream just over a year ago: opening their own bar. The result is a new address for serious mixology, one with a Mediterranean soul and a Southern-Balkan heart. Every syrup, cordial, and infusion is made by George himself, right there in his small kitchen.
Like many who have made Vienna their home, George Muka was born in Albania and grew up in Chalkidiki, Greece. Chrysa hails from Thessaloniki, where the two first met. Their bar mirrors the rhythm of their roots—warmth, dedication, community, and a love for slow, conscious enjoyment.
After years in hospitality and bar management—most recently at the acclaimed Josef Bar—George decided it was time to build something of his own. Saint George carries his name, his craft, and all his hours. “I don’t have any staff yet—maybe one day—but for now it’s just Chrysa and me.” By day, she works in an entirely different world: “I have a Bachelor’s in Psychology and a Master’s in Human Resource Management & Development,” Chrysa explains. “I work in HR, focusing on talent acquisition.” George smiles: “Saint George is actually her first hands-on experience in gastronomy—and it’s been such a positive and rewarding surprise!”
A Taste of Home
For both of them, Vienna is a city they plan to stay in for good. “We love the quality of life here,” says George, “and the diversity of the bar scene. It’s full of people from different cultural and professional backgrounds. That mix creates stories, new approaches, and a creative energy that keeps everything evolving.”
Working without staff means George runs the show from prep to last call. His bar is also his kitchen: he produces everything from syrups and cordials to infused spirits and garnishes. Signature creations like the Malaka Negroni (gin, vermouth, and baklava-infused Campari) or the Greek Salad cocktail (complete with spices, tomato, and cucumber essence) channel the flavors of his Mediterranean upbringing.
Spritzes or highballs? You won’t find them here. Instead, Saint George caters to personal taste and even crafts thoughtful non-alcoholic options. The mood is elegant yet relaxed, with timeless music and a quiet attention to detail that feels almost old-world.
A Bar with Heart
After its first year, the verdict is clear: Saint George has built a loyal following. “Our priority has always been the experience,” says Chrysa. “We want people to feel welcome, relaxed, and valued—and we want to enjoy what we do just as much. It’s about mindful drinking, respect, warmth, and genuine joy in connecting with others.”
Guests, she says, often return not just for the drinks but for the connection. “Many have become close friends—that means a lot to us.” There’s no Wi-Fi on purpose; guests are encouraged to be fully present, enjoying the conversation and the moment.
Community, Inspiration & Everyday Life
For now, the couple runs the bar alone but hopes to expand the team in the future. They’re also interested in guest shifts and masterclasses—events that build community and foster exchange. “We love the idea of formats that highlight not just cocktails, but hospitality and the human element behind the bar,” says Chrysa. Among their inspirations: Death & Co. in New York and The Jerry Thomas Speakeasy in Rome.
But time for travel is scarce. “George manages everything in the bar during the day—from prep to fine-tuning—and he also takes care of most things at home,” says Chrysa. “I work full-time in HR and help out at night and on weekends. I also handle the admin for the bar—and I love creating a sense of home for us.”
George nods. “Our weekends are for reflecting, brainstorming, and shaping the life we want to live together. We’re not just business partners—we’re a couple, best friends, and partners in crime. That’s what makes this whole journey so special.”
