Discovering the Heart of Hospitality: An Interview with Simon Griffiths, Co-Founder and CEO of Who Gives A Crap
Australian social entrepreneur Simon Griffiths, renowned for establishing Who Gives A Crap alongside two friends in 2012, has successfully demonstrated that it is indeed possible to develop an environmentally conscious toilet paper brand that also prioritizes social impact.
Currently, Simon divides his time between Los Angeles and the picturesque Mornington Peninsula. Recently, he sat down for a chat with The Write Drop as part of our At the Bar series, where he shared some fantastic insights for wineries located in the Peninsula region.
MY CITY
Although Melbourne is officially my city, I’ve spent the last ten years bouncing between Melbourne, LA, and the Mornington Peninsula. I find myself in LA less frequently these days. My family and I have come to deeply appreciate all that Melbourne—and Australia as a whole—has to offer after spending a significant amount of time in the US. We’re fortunate to enjoy exceptional hospitality, a beautifully relaxed lifestyle, and easy access to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world.
FAVOURITE FOOD MEMORY
For special occasions, I have a soft spot for Tedesca Osteria located in Mainridge. We celebrated my wife’s 40th birthday there with an intimate lunch filled with wonderful food memories. This restaurant is committed to utilizing outstanding local ingredients, many of which are sourced from their own garden. Their unique flavor combinations are always surprising, and the menu changes almost daily. Prior to opening Tedesca, the owner operated Gertrude Street Enoteca in Fitzroy, which I miss dearly since Who Gives A Crap’s office is just around the corner from where it used to be!
FAVOURITE BAR
Bar Holiday stands out as a go-to spot for me. After the closure of Gertrude Street Enoteca, this charming, European-style bar filled a much-needed gap in Melbourne’s scene. They offer delicious food, an inviting atmosphere, and a straightforward wine list that never disappoints. I’m confident ordering anything from their selection, knowing it will be delightful. Plus, the nearby playground and the incredible Japanese ice cream shop make it a great destination for both kids and adults.
DRINK THAT DESCRIBES YOU
I would say a Tommy’s Margarita fits me perfectly. It’s simple, refreshingly fresh, and has just the right touch of saltiness. For me, margaritas are always best served on the rocks—no exceptions when it comes to Tommy’s.
BEST HANGOVER CURE
Nothing beats jumping into the ocean, especially after a bit of exercise.
BEST INTERSTATE BAR
While it leans more towards being a restaurant, I absolutely adore Long Chim in Perth. Having grown up in Perth, I visit a few times each year, whether it’s for work or to catch up with my parents. During quick visits, I often meet my Mum and Dad at Long Chim. Their evolving drinks menu is one-of-a-kind, and the food is genuinely fantastic if you can spare the time to indulge.
OVERSEAS BAR
The Library Lounge at The Standard Hotel in London is a favorite of mine. I suspect that The Standard has gleaned valuable insights from its initial four properties in the United States, culminating in the creation of The Standard London. The Library Lounge is conveniently located just off the hotel lobby and boasts warm colors and stunning vintage furniture, creating a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. The walls are adorned with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves filled with captivating titles, and of course, the drinks (and yes, even the toilet paper!) are top-notch. There’s a rooftop bar as well, but I’ve never felt compelled to explore that option.
FAVOURITE WINE
One of my top picks is the Stilvi 2023 Amber Sauvignon Blanc. Tim, the winemaker, previously worked at Merricks Store and recommended this bottle to me when I stopped by. Surprisingly, I’m not typically a fan of Australian or Kiwi Sauvignon Blanc, but this one stands apart—it’s incredibly dry and minerally, winning over even my friends who usually favor Chardonnay. Plus, Tim is a genuinely nice individual, which certainly adds to the experience.
FAVOURITE WINERY
I prefer the quieter wineries with stunning gardens, such as Panton and Ocean Eight in Shoreham. For food, coffee, or to pick up a bottle of wine, I frequently visit Merricks Store—they serve as the cellar door for Elgee Park and Baillieu vineyards and offer wines from across the Peninsula.
NEXT DESTINATION
At the end of summer, I’m planning a kayak camping trip around Moreton Bay with my son. We’ll be kayaking about 20 kilometers each day and camping on different islands each night. I believe that adventure holidays, particularly those that involve a mental or physical challenge, are an excellent way to disconnect and foster personal growth—especially for busy children and adults alike.
