TALIKA Shorrock, the relatively new owner of Southside institution, Pepes Milk Bar, says she’s seen generations come through the takeaway since she first began working there 22 years ago.
“We’ve gone from grandparents, to grandkids, and now they’re coming in with their kids too,” she said.
Shorrock said she first worked at Pepes for five years as an employee, before leaving to pursue other opportunities.
“After five years I came back and have been managing it for the last 12 years,” she said.
“And I’ve owned it since August.”
She said the milk bar feels like home, and she’s excited to see her regulars every day.
“We have a very loyal customer base,” she said.
“Most of our customers come in every day.”
Ms Shorrock’s first job was in hospitality, working at the local Brumby’s Bakery when she left school, and later becoming a manager.
She’s been in the hospitality industry ever since, and employs four full time staff and a couple of juniors to help prepare food and serve customers.
“I just love it here,” she said.
Pepe’s offers a Sunday roast every week, as well as shanks on Thursdays.
But Ms Shorrock said her favourite item on the menu is the sushi.
“If someone comes in and says ‘hey can you do this?’ We usually give it a crack – that’s how the sushi started,” she said.
