Dine Out: Paul Farag x Avia

In March, chef Paul Farag stepped away from Aalia and Aalia Wine Room, restaurants where he showed off technique, flavour and creativity from across the Middle East. Now he’s putting on a show for Broadsheet’s second Dine Out Festival, stepping into the kitchen at Italian restaurant Avia for one night only.

Over two seatings, a special $88 set menu explores dishes from coastal North Africa and the Mediterranean, leaning heavily into sea and spice. Farag draws on dishes that have cultural ties to both regions, putting his own signature spin on them.

SAMPLE MENU (SUBJECT TO CHANGE)

Labeneh, pickled sardines, sesame, Muscat glaze zucchini flower, buffalo ricotta, zaatar

Mackerel & lamb Kibbeh nayyeh, amaranth, egg yolk, curry leaf

Raw marlin noodles, rose harissa, dill

Scorpion fish, chermoula, broad bean

Ajwain spiced bread, sumac

Wagyu rump cap, roast chicken murri, hararat

Fragrant rice, dates, ras el hanout, preserved lemon

Chopped salad, sahawig oil, black lime

Fried almond custard, apricot kernel ice cream, mace