Dunyazad Lebanese Restaurant

Mietta's Eating & Drinking in Melbourne 2000

Contributors' Choice
Page 98

Set at the end of an unglamorous shopping strip off Doncaster Road, the inside is a treat, decorated with Middle Eastern paraphernalia and with a fantastical 'Arabian Nights' feature wall down one side. A large restaurant which is noisy and bustling with Lebanese families and local diners at weekends. It is also popular for parties and other functions, where the guests get into the spirit of things, particularly if there is a belly dancer.

Staff are attentive and helpful in explaining the food. It is a family-run restaurant and despite its size is warm and friendly, though probably not great for a romantic night out. As with many Middle Eastern restaurants, the food really comes into is own when eaten mezze style by larger groups - lots of small dishes and different taste sensations.

As well as the traditional Lebanese favourites (dips, tabbouleh, felafel, shish kebabs) Dunyazad also specialises in more unusual and imaginative Middle Eastern fare, such as braised home-style dishes. Leave room for dessert and the excellent crisp, sweet pastries served with Arabic coffee.

329 Doncaster Road
Balwyn North
Middle Eastern Cuisine
Melways reference 46:H2
Phone: 9857 8778
Opening hours: 7 days Lunch: 12 noon-3pm, Dinner: 6pm-1am
BYO
Accepts credit cards
Seats Inside: 190
Closed: Good Friday, New Year's Day
Features: Restricted smoking, kids encouraged
Favourites: Ashtrout $16, Shah rayar $16, Whole baby snapper $22.00