From sizzling skewers to luscious baba ganoush, the allure of Middle Eastern cuisine lies in its ability to bring people together over bold flavours, shared plates and time-honoured recipes. Whether it’s the aromatic char of lamb kofta or the delicate sweetness of baklava, these venues offer more than just food - they serve immersive experiences layered with tradition, ambience and heart.

Here are five standout destinations across Queensland and New South Wales that deliver the kind of Middle Eastern feasts that linger in memory long after the last bite.

Ahmet’s Turkish Restaurant – South Bank, Qld

Ahmet’s Turkish Restaurant is a sensory journey through Istanbul without leaving the heart of South Bank. Nestled along Grey Street, this opulent venue captures the essence of Turkish hospitality with intricate wall art, glowing leadlight pendents and richly patterned textiles. The dining room pulses with warmth and vibrancy, ideal for groups ready to feast or date nights that call for a little exotic flair. Ahmet’s blends a romantic atmosphere with the soul of a bustling Turkish kitchen, turning every meal into a celebration.

This is a place made for lingering, preferably over a shared spread. Start with charcoal-grilled lamb cutlets nestled beside tomato bulgur rice and chermoula sauce or scoop up garlic prawns with pillowy Turkish bread, fresh from the oven. The star? Angus beef rump skewers seasoned with rosemary and Turkish spices, balanced by a fiery housemade harissa. Finish strong with chewy squares of Turkish delight or nutty, golden baklava - or better yet, opt for the banquet-style Kings or Sultans Feasts to experience it all.

Book your Sultan’s table for a full immersion into Turkish indulgence.

Kelby’s Café – Marrickville, NSW

Kelby’s Café on Marrickville Road is where café culture and Middle Eastern flavours collide in a gloriously casual setting. This is a local’s haunt with an elevated twist: ferns tumble from above, golden orbs cast a soft glow and every corner hums with rustic charm. The vibe is effortlessly cool yet welcoming, making it ideal for a laidback brunch that still feels like a treat. Kelby’s proves that Middle Eastern cuisine doesn’t always need candlelight and carpets - it thrives just as well among the clink of coffee cups and morning chatter.

The menu is an inventive ode to the Levant. Brunchers flock for the halloumi stack - think smashed avo on rye sourdough, with silky poached eggs, za’atar, kale and golden housemade hash browns. However, there’s more depth here. The Middle Eastern bowl layers lamb shawarma with baba ganoush, harissa cauliflower, chickpeas and toasted pine nuts for a dish that satisfies on every level; or bite into a Moroccan chicken sandwich served on Turkish bread - smoky, juicy and perfectly crisped.

Secure your weekend brunch spot and taste the Middle East in every forkful.

Tetas Authentic Lebanese – Roseville Chase, NSW

Tetas in Roseville Chase is where home-style Lebanese cooking meets boutique dining. With sandstone brick, cast iron touches and a ceiling laced with vines, it feels more like stepping into a rustic Beirut courtyard than a Sydney suburb. ‘Teta’ means grandma and this family-run gem delivers on that name with soulful, heritage-rich dishes served in a setting that’s earthy, intimate and full of heart.

Every bite here speaks of legacy. Begin with charcoal-cooked octopus or spicy Armenian sujuk, then make way for marinated lamb backstrap skewers cooked over charcoal and served with hummus and roasted vegetables. The flavours are layered, refined and undeniably comforting. Chicken tawook, kofta, garlic dip - these dishes don’t just feed you, they welcome you in.

Reserve a table and let Tetas treat you to Lebanese cuisine with warmth and flair.

Frank’s Lebanese Restaurant – Fairfield, NSW

A Fairfield icon since 1992, Frank’s Lebanese Restaurant is the kind of place locals treasure. Located on Smart Street, it fuses a sleek, modern interior with the rich traditions of Lebanese family dining. It’s elegant without being stiff, casual without cutting corners - a rare balance that keeps generations of diners coming back for more. Whether you're seated for a special occasion or simply satisfying a craving, Frank’s delivers consistency, character and cultural pride.

Start your feast with grape leaves stuffed with rice and tomato, or lamb shawarma drizzled in tahini sauce. Then, sink into the signature baked kaftah - a comforting tray of lamb, onion and parsley blanketed with sliced potatoes and a side of fluffy rice and pickles. It’s pure Middle Eastern soul food. Round it off with semolina pudding drenched in orange blossom syrup and maybe a glass of chilled Chilean Sauvignon Blanc.

Book a table and experience Fairfield’s enduring love affair with Lebanese fare.

Balabite – Townsville, Qld

Balabite in North Ward is the kind of spot where the scent of spice draws you in before you’ve even read the menu. This street food haven is a bold fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours, dished up in a venue that balances creativity with comfort. Recycled timber benches, vibrant artwork and a laidback vibe make it ideal for a casual catch-up with serious culinary punch.

Here, flavour is King and everything is made fresh. Lamb arais - pita pockets stuffed with spiced lamb and crisped on the grill - are a must. Pair them with Balabite’s handmade pita bread, prepared daily for optimal pillowy texture. The Jerusalem bowl layers pulled lamb with rice, tabouli, slaw, eggplant, tzatziki and pickles for a modern street-style meal that sings with every bite; or try the falafel wrap with chimichurri and beetroot - fresh, fiery and fast.

Drop in today and grab a taste of Townsville’s boldest street eats.

From the laneways of Marrickville to the sun-soaked streets of South Bank, these venues prove that the Middle Eastern feast is alive and thriving. Whether you’re craving charcoal-grilled meats, silky dips or vibrant salads packed with herbs and spice, there’s a table waiting for you. Bring your appetite, and let these kitchens take care of the rest.