There’s something magical about mezze. Whether it's a spread of dips, sizzling grilled meats or delicate seafood bites, these small plates are made for sharing and savouring. Across the country, a host of restaurants are celebrating this timeless tradition with their own twist on the classics. Here are five standout spots serving up some of the best mezze experiences.
Meze Restaurant & Bar – Glen Waverley, Vic
Nestled in the Novotel Melbourne Glen Waverley, Meze Restaurant & Bar blends Middle Eastern, Indian and international flavours into a seamless dining experience. The stylish space sets the mood with dim lighting, plush green velvet bar stools and geometric pendent lights, creating an inviting atmosphere for an evening of shared indulgence. Whether you’re perched at the bar with a cocktail or settled into an intimate table, the diverse menu offers something for everyone.
The mixed grill platter for two is a must-try, featuring a succulent selection of shish taouk, beef shish kebab and kebab meshwi, served alongside thick-cut chips, grilled pita and aromatic saffron rice. With vibrant pickles, fresh rocket and a selection of sauces to enhance every bite, this platter is a feast of bold flavours and tender, perfectly grilled meats.
KADMUS Lebanese – Drummoyne, NSW
A true gem in Sydney’s dining scene, KADMUS Lebanese brings a heartfelt homage to Lebanese cuisine in the heart of Drummoyne. With white tablecloths, softly glowing pendent lights and walls adorned with images of Lebanon, the restaurant exudes a warm, welcoming charm. On sunny days, the courtyard offers the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely mezze feast with a glass of wine in hand.
Among the many traditional dishes, the ouzi stands out - a four-hour slow-cooked lamb dish served over turmeric rice and topped with toasted almonds. This dish encapsulates the essence of Lebanese cuisine, with melt-in-your-mouth lamb infused with aromatic spices, creating a rich, comforting flavour profile that pairs beautifully with a spread of mezze plates.
For a Mediterranean mezze experience with Greek and Italian influences, Olive at Hawker in Canberra delivers on all fronts. Rustic charm meets warm hospitality in this inviting space, where diners are treated to a selection of dishes made from the freshest ingredients. Whether you’re catching up with friends or enjoying a date night, the welcoming ambience makes every visit special.
One of the standout dishes is the pork souvlakia, featuring char-grilled pork loin served with baked potatoes, tomatoes, mushrooms and Spanish onions, finished with tangy yoghurt sauce. The smoky, tender pork pairs beautifully with the vibrant vegetables and creamy yoghurt, making it a perfect choice for those who love bold yet balanced Mediterranean flavours.
Kings Valley Egyptian Cuisine – Hamilton, NSW
Step into Kings Valley Egyptian Cuisine in Hamilton and be transported to the land of the Pharaohs. With large statues, authentic artefacts and décor imported directly from Egypt, this Newcastle restaurant offers an immersive dining experience alongside its menu of traditional family recipes.
For the ultimate mezze-style feast, the Egyptian mezze platter delivers an array of authentic bites, including zabadi salata, tahina, Egyptian falafel, baba ghanoush, vine leaves, Egyptian pickles, Kalamata olives, Egyptian salad and a basket of freshly baked bread. Each element brings its own texture and flavour, from the creamy richness of the dips to the crisp falafel and tangy pickles, making it the perfect dish to share and savour.
Bringing a slice of Greece to the Sunshine Coast, Lyra in Maroochydore captures the essence of Greek dining with its coastal charm. Blue and white hues, crisp table settings and glowing globe lights create an airy, relaxed vibe, perfect for a Mediterranean feast. Using the finest local ingredients, the menu is a modern take on traditional Greek flavours.
For a mezze that transports you straight to the Aegean, try the char-grilled octopus. Served with chickpeas, tomato, oregano oil, cucumber, shallots and peas, this dish delivers a perfect balance of smoky, citrusy and herbaceous notes. The tender, charred octopus pairs beautifully with the freshness of the vegetables, making it a standout choice for seafood lovers.
Whether you’re craving Lebanese classics, Mediterranean delights or an Egyptian feast, these top spots are serving up mezze at its finest. With rich, shareable dishes that celebrate bold flavours and vibrant ingredients, there’s no better way to gather around the table. So grab your friends, order a spread and get ready to indulge in the magic of mezze.
