Melbourne's Armenian-Lebanese eatery Zareh named Gourmet Traveller’s restaurant of the year

Melbourne's Armenian-Lebanese restaurant, Zareh, has been awarded the prestigious title of Gourmet Traveller’s Restaurant of the Year for 2026. This recognition is particularly noteworthy as the annual industry awards have historically been dominated by establishments with a strong European culinary influence and a focus on fine dining. Previous esteemed recipients of this accolade include renowned restaurants such as Saint Peter, Attica, Orana (founded by the late Jock Zonfrillo), and Quay, all of which represent the pinnacle of fine dining in Australia.

The culinary identity of Zareh is deeply intertwined with the diverse heritage of its co-owners, Tom Sarafian and Jinane Bou-Assi. Their backgrounds, encompassing Armenian, Egyptian, and Lebanese cultures, are artfully reflected in the restaurant's innovative menu. This fusion of traditions is exemplified in several signature dishes. The aish baladi, a traditional Egyptian flatbread, is meticulously prepared using flour sourced from the Mornington Peninsula, showcasing a commitment to local Australian produce. Similarly, the kafta nayyah, a dish featuring raw minced lamb, utilizes high-quality lamb sourced from Tasmania and Victoria, underscoring the restaurant's dedication to premium Australian ingredients. Further illustrating their unique approach, Zareh's hummus is elevated with the addition of spanner crab, offering a sophisticated seafood twist on a classic Middle Eastern mezze.

The selection of Zareh as Gourmet Traveller’s Restaurant of the Year signifies a broadening perspective within the Australian food industry regarding culinary excellence. It marks a departure from solely recognizing traditional fine-dining establishments and embraces a wider spectrum of gastronomic influences and styles. This award celebrates Zareh's remarkable ability to harmoniously blend distinct cultural flavors into a cohesive and exceptional dining experience. The judges' decision is seen as a reflection of a growing appreciation for restaurants that offer unique narratives and authentic representations of their heritage through food, while simultaneously upholding rigorous standards of quality and execution. This recognition is anticipated to draw increased attention to Zareh and may influence future award criteria, encouraging greater diversity and innovation within the Australian culinary landscape.