At the heart of PonyBoy are cousins James Nezos and Trif Rellos, two hospitality veterans brought together by family, tradition and a genuine love for people.

James has spent more than 30 years in the hospitality industry, creating and operating a range of iconic Melbourne venues spanning cafés, wine bars and restaurants. One of his most recognised ventures was the much-loved Wallflower in South Melbourne, which became a local institution from 1997 to 2002.

Returning to his Hellenic roots, James partnered with his cousin Trif Rellos to create PonyBoy, a venue built on warmth, generosity and connection. Trif spent more than three decades working alongside his father in their respected family butcher shop in Carnegie, which became renowned for supplying some of Melbourne’s finest quality meats. Their reputation attracted a loyal clientele from all walks of life and backgrounds; Greek, Italian, Russian, Polish and many, many more, all drawn by produce and service that was truly second to none.

More than just a butcher shop, it was a place where stories were shared, friendships were formed and everyone was welcomed like family. That same spirit lives on today at PonyBoy, where the cousins’ natural hospitality and love for conversation make every guest feel immediately at home.

Their parents taught them that being humble, showing respect and looking after people are some of the finest qualities a person can have values that remain at the heart of PonyBoy today.

That energy can be felt the moment you walk through the doors of PonyBoy where guests are treated not as customers, but as longtime friends returning home.