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Middle Eastern Flavors Crowned Restaurant of the Year
17 Aug
Summary
- Armenian-Lebanese eatery Zareh won Gourmet Traveller's top award.
- Zareh's menu features a fusion of Armenian, Egyptian, and Lebanese influences.
- The award highlights Australia's diverse migrant history shaping its dining scene.
Armenian-Lebanese restaurant Zareh has been honored as Gourmet Traveller's restaurant of the year. This prestigious award, often dominated by European-influenced fine dining, recognized Zareh's innovative menu that draws from Armenian, Egyptian, and Lebanese culinary traditions.
Co-owners Tom Sarafian and Jinane Bou-Assi crafted a menu featuring dishes like aish baladi and kafta nayyah, showcasing ingredients sourced from across Australia. Sarafian described the restaurant as a "love letter" celebrating cultural exchange and inclusivity.
The awards ceremony in Sydney highlighted the significant impact of Australia's migrant communities on its food culture. Other notable winners included Beppi's for enduring excellence and Saadi's Saavni Krishnan and Aditya Suresh for best new talent, representing modern Indian cuisine.
"Big" Sam Young was recognized as restaurant personality of the year, sharing his journey from kitchen hand to co-owner. Chef Stephanie Alexander received an outstanding contribution award, acknowledging her decades of influence in the hospitality industry.
Melbourne's Yiaga earned the title of best new restaurant, while Christian Ryan was named chef of the year. The event also marked the 60th anniversary of Gourmet Traveller magazine.
