Our Story
Our Story
MiddleSouthEast was born out of a deep passion for gathering, creating and celebrating the vibrant spices and authentic recipes of the Middle East—treasures lovingly handed down from our grandmother’s kitchen to ours, whilst adding a modern Australian twist.
Every dish we serve carries the essence of Lebanon’s mountain villages, where we source rare imported ingredients that form the aromatic foundation of true Middle Eastern cuisine. These aren’t just spices—they’re storytellers. Sumac, with its tangy crimson colour, has symbolised resilience and hospitality across the Levant for centuries. Baharat, our signature seven-spice blend, represents the complexity and warmth of family gatherings. Za’atar connects us to ancient traditions, while our house-made zhoug herb salsa brings the fiery spirit of home-cooked celebrations to every plate.
At MiddleSouthEast, we’ve woven together flavours from across Lebanon’s diverse regions—from the coastal cities to the Bekaa Valley—ensuring that every bite transports you to the homeland. But we’re proudly Australian too, and this is where the magic happens. Our menu is a love letter to both heritages: traditional Lebanese and Assyrian recipes reimagined with the finest Australian free-range products, locally sourced fresh ingredients, and modern cafe sensibilities.
Experience our Eggs Benedict—slow-cooked pork on crispy potato rosti, elevated with harissa hollandaise and pomegranate drizzle. Or our Corn Fritters, where Australian staples meet smoked salmon, goats cheese and pomegranates. Even our Habibi Classic showcases this beautiful fusion: crushed avocado, feta, beetroot labne and dukkah on za’atar bread. It’s Middle Eastern soul food with an unmistakable South Yarra edge.
The moment you step through our doors, you’ll be embraced by the intoxicating aromas of baharat-spiced dishes, freshly grilled halloumi, herbed chilli scrambled eggs sizzling in the pan, and aromatic zucchini filled with traditional spices. But more than the food, you’ll feel something deeper—the warmth of genuine Middle Eastern hospitality.
You’re not just a customer here. You’re an invited guest into our home.
This philosophy is at the heart of everything we do. In Middle Eastern culture, welcoming someone into your home is sacred. We treat every person who walks through our door with that same respect, warmth and generosity we’d extend to a cherished visitor. We learn your names, remember your favourite dishes, ask about your family, and celebrate your milestones with you.
Over the years, we’ve built not just a customer base, but a community—a loyal family of regulars who return not only for the food, but for the conversations, the laughter, the genuine connections. Many of our customers have been with us from the beginning, and watching their lives unfold has been one of our greatest joys. This is what Middle Eastern hospitality means: creating relationships that last, making memories that matter, and ensuring every visit feels like coming home.
From our Eastern Patties (sweet potato and chickpea patties with bacon, grilled halloumi and herb zhoug sauce) to our Mujadara bowls, every dish honours where we came from while celebrating where we are now. We use free-range products and the freshest local ingredients, then transform them with the nuts, spices and techniques that define Middle Eastern cooking.
We don’t just serve food—we share memories, heritage, the recipes that shaped us, and most importantly, we share our table with you. Every dish is prepared with the same love and care we’d offer family, creating flavours so authentic and delicious you’ll want to shout from the rooftops.
Come and taste Lebanon and Assyria, reimagined for South Yarra. Come and discover why our customers keep coming back for more. Come and experience what it means to be truly welcomed.
“What is mine is surely yours!”