Lillah

Lillah (pronounced as “lee-lah”, which means “beautiful night” in Arabic) is a casual, modern Middle Eastern restaurant that incorporates the cuisines of Egypt, Turkey, Israel and Lebabnon.

There are familiar dishes such as the crispy falafel that comes with charcoal tahini, a tomato-based salsa and chilli zhug (green-chilli puree). And inventive dishes such as the hummus bowl with smoked za’atar lamb, burnt eggplant and pickled radish.

For a bit of crunch and freshness, opt for the spiced-beetroot salad with shaved fennel and pistachio drizzled with smoked honey and lemon. There’s also the smoked za’atar lamb “malawach tacos” with labne (cultivated yoghurt) and a capsicum salsa. Most items on the menu are cooked in the kitchen’s custom-built open grill and slow cooker.

Each plate and piece of crockery used in the kitchen is handcrafted by ceramic artist Samantha Robinson in collaboration with Melbourne’s Studio Y.

The space resembles an ancient Middle Eastern courtyard; there are archways, a feature skylight and exposed-brick walls.

Every table in the restaurant has been custom made; they have discreet compartments where you can store your phone, wallet and keys. And if your phone is running low on battery Lillah has you covered: there’s a USB charger under each booth.

Cocktails are by Amir Halpert, the owner of The Owl House. Try Lillah's signature Avocado Fizz with gin, lime, lemon, orange-blossom water, egg white, avocado, coriander and soda water.