Sezar
Concealed in the hidden lane way of Melbourne Place, Sezar brings a fresh approach on Armenian cuisine to the heart (and stomachs) of Melbourne. Brought to us by the talented team behind Black Toro, Sezar promises the finest Armenian experience - from the delectable food, imaginative cocktails to the carefully crafted wine list.
Expect a feast of modern Armenian dishes in company of some old favourites - a display of food and drinks representing the best of flavours and aromas unique to Armenia. Especially Sezar's new Autumn menu which I had the pleasure of trying first hand:
Bastourma & Egg - Armenian air dried beef, quail egg, toasted brioche and garlic jam
Oysters with compressed apple and anise
Spinach and Feta Boreg with aleppo mayo
Cured Ocean Trout with apple and fennel salad, crème fraîche and roe
Grain Salad - Toasted pumpkin seed, almonds, sour cherries and labne
BBQ King Brown Mushrooms with toasted Israeli cous cous, sujuk and sweet potato puree
Twice Cooked Chicken Wings with pomegranate glaze and crushed pistachios
Braised Lamb - Kaitaifi wrapped wih sesame mayo
Spanner Crab Manti - Armenian dumplings, sumac yoghurt and chilli oil
BBQ Wagyu Tenderloin with garlic yoghurt and lavash
Triple Cooked Chips with roasted garlic & aleppo pepper
Sezar Express - Sloe gin, raspberry puree and fresh lime
Dessert Tasting Plate - New Style Baklava, Pistachio Cakes,
Chocolate Marquis, Almond Milk Panna Cotta and Vanilla Parfait
I hate to play the favourite game, but if I must… the dish that stood out to me the most were the Spanner Crab Dumplings. Such unexpected, yet interesting flavours brought together. From the freshness of the crab, the tanginess and tartness of the sumac yogurt to the kick in the chilli oil - ahhhhh. And for the sweet tooths ? The dessert platter is a must. Food aside (never), what I enjoyed the most was the genuine sense of warmth and hospitality at Sezar.
Warm and fuzzies all round.
Warm and fuzzies all round.
