Bar Beirut - Canberra, ACT
Bar Beirut in Canberra is a vibrant homage to Lebanese culture and cuisine, where the lively spirit of Beirut meets the culinary diversity of Australia. This bustling venue, with its colourful decor and warm, inviting atmosphere, serves as a crossroads of culture and flavour. Here, guests are encouraged to share in the rich tradition of mezze dining, exploring a variety of dishes in a setting that feels like a celebration every night.
The Charred Chicken with dill oil, slaw, toum and bread is a standout dish that epitomises the essence of Bar Beirut. Marinated and grilled to perfection, the chicken is beautifully complemented by the brightness of the dill oil and the creamy, garlicky toum. Served with fresh bread, it's a dish designed for sharing and enjoying together, embodying the communal spirit that is at the heart of mezze dining.
The Stables - Malmsbury, VIC
Nestled in the historic bluestone village of Malmsbury, The Stables emerges as a beacon of culinary excellence, where Mediterranean cuisine meets Australian charm. This rustic yet refined eatery, housed in a beautifully restored stable, offers an atmosphere of warmth and sophistication. With its exposed brick walls, timber beams and ambient lighting, The Stables provides an intimate setting perfect for the communal spirit of mezze dining.
The Mussels Meunière stands out as a testament to the venue's commitment to simple, yet exquisitely prepared dishes. Bathed in a delicate sauce of white wine, tomato salsa, garlic and spring onions, the mussels offer a symphony of flavours that are both comforting and sophisticated. Served with a freshly baked ciabatta roll perfect for soaking up the rich, aromatic sauce, this dish encapsulates the essence of shared dining, inviting guests to linger over every flavourful bite.
Meze Restaurant & Bar - Glen Waverley, VIC
In the bustling heart of Glen Waverley, Meze Restaurant & Bar presents a modern twist on the traditional mezze experience. The venue's contemporary decor, with its sleek lines and vibrant accents, sets the stage for a dining experience that is both elegant and approachable. Here, the spirit of Mediterranean hospitality is alive and well, inviting diners to gather and share in the joy of good food and good company.
The Mixed Grill Platter for Two is a signature offering that captures the essence of Meze Restaurant & Bar. Featuring an array of succulently grilled meats including shish taouk, beef shish kebab and kebab meshwi, this platter is a carnivore's delight. Accompanied by a selection of sauces, pickles, thick-cut chips, grilled pita, rocket and saffron rice, it offers a comprehensive taste of the Mediterranean, perfect for sharing and savouring together.
Rocco - Cairns, QLD
Perched atop the vibrant city of Cairns, Rocco offers a dining experience that combines breathtaking panoramic views with a menu inspired by the rich culinary heritage of the Mediterranean. This rooftop haven is a fusion of elegance and relaxation, where the azure skyline meets the intricate flavours of the Middle East and the Mediterranean. Rocco's ambience, with its opulent decor and open-air setting, makes it an unparalleled destination for mezze-style dining under the stars.
The Daintree Barramundi Fillet, seasoned with Ras El Hanout and served atop creamed corn, is a dish that speaks to Rocco's commitment to local ingredients and global flavours. This beautifully prepared fillet, with its crispy skin and tender flesh, offers a modern Australian twist on traditional mezze, highlighting the restaurant's innovative approach to cuisine that respects tradition while embracing the new.
Four Ate Five - Surry Hills, NSW
Four Ate Five, located in the eclectic neighbourhood of Surry Hills, NSW, offers a cosy retreat where the charm of Sydney's cafe culture meets the communal joy of mezze. This beloved venue combines a laid-back atmosphere with a menu that's both innovative and deeply comforting. With its commitment to quality ingredients and a passion for creating dishes that bring people together, Four Ate Five is a standout in the city's dining scene.
The Chorizo Baked Eggs, served with roasted sweet potato, green pepper, tomato, tzatziki, zhoug and pita, is a dish that beautifully encapsulates the venue's ethos. This hearty, flavourful meal, with its rich spices and vibrant ingredients, offers a warm, inviting start to any day. Perfect for sharing or indulging alone, it represents the best of communal dining, where every bite is a reminder of the joy of eating together.
