Mina Maria
(Formerly I Should Be Souvlaki)
Mina Maria began as a humble market stall at the Sydney Vegan Market in December 2017 — quickly becoming one of the event’s most popular attractions. Founded by couple Emma Langley and Adam Papas, the brand was born from a shared vision: to create plant-based versions of the Greek dishes Adam had cherished since childhood.
During Sydney’s lockdowns, Mina Maria (then I Should Be Souvlaki ) expanded beyond the markets, launching a nationwide “At Home” range that brought their signature chilled products to customers across NSW, VIC, ACT, and QLD.
In 2021, the pair opened their flagship restaurant on Newtown’s famous vegan mile, earning a devoted following for their baked cheesecake, 60-hour marinated proteins, and buttermilk Southern Fried Chick’n — dishes that redefined what plant-based dining could be.
By 2024, I Should Be Souvlaki evolved into Mina Maria, a name chosen to honour two influential women in the founders’ lives: Adam’s grandmother Asimina (“Mina”) and Emma’s late great-aunt Maria. The rebrand reflected both a deep respect for heritage and a renewed creative direction for the brand’s future. During their time in Newtown, Mina Maria developed a passionate following and were featured on many 'best of' lists in national publications.
In 2025, following the bittersweet closure of Mina Maria, Emma and Adam transformed challenge into opportunity with the launch of Evergreen Table, a platform designed to give Mina Maria and other beloved vegan brands a chance to thrive and grow once more.
Founders highlight: Winning the 2024 AMEX small business grant & catering for team Billie Eilish on the Sydney leg of the 'Hit me hard and soft tour'