Now Open: Mezepotamia Is Redfern's New Turkish and Middle Eastern Restaurant That's Inspired by Centuries of Culinary Heritage
Celebrate big flavours, and each other, at this new Mediterranean-inspired venue brimming with communal vibes.
Missing the vibrant flavours of the Med? Mezepotamia is a new spot in Redfern, bound to satisfy your cravings. Founded by hospitality veterans Enes Yakan and Jessica Paatiño, this upbeat restaurant is bringing a contemporary blend of Turkish and Middle Eastern flavours that not only showcase centuries of culinary heritage, but invite guests to become immersed in the region's enriching spirit.
While the restaurant launched in Leichhardt during the tumultuous times of 2021, it forged a dedicated customer base thanks to its signature share plates and welcoming atmosphere. Having made the move from the inner west to the inner south, the restaurant's new home presents an equally alluring space brimming with heartwarming food, wine and communal good vibes. Drawing inspiration from Turkey and throughout the Middle East, Mezepotamia's menu is primed to feed a crowd.
Featuring mezze and grilled specialties prepared using traditional charcoal grilling and slow-cooking techniques, the restaurant's respect for culinary heritage translates to vivid dishes where the pleasure of getting together with loved ones is just as important as what's served on the plate.
"We wanted to create a space that celebrates the warmth and generosity of Middle Eastern dining," says co-owner Enes Yakan. "Mezepotamia isn't just about food, it's about the experience of coming together, sharing, and enjoying the moment."
Leading the kitchen is Mezepotamia's Head Chef Burak Yildirim, who has 30 years of experience serving authentic Turkish, Greek and Italian cuisine, with a few modern additions. Shaping the menu is a range of bright and zesty highlights, from smoky eggplant dip to onion dolma, featuring seasoned beef, currants, pine nuts and aromatic spices. There's also Ali Nazik, where grass-fed aged steak is served over a velvety eggplant purée and finished with chilli butter. Meanwhile, signature cocktails like the Anatolian Highball offer a refreshing mix of raki, pear liqueur, mastic, lemon and soda.
Mezepotamia's design is as thoughtful as the cuisine, with a sophisticated blend of traditional and contemporary touches evoking the warm hues of the Middle East and the Mediterranean. Expect earthy tones, soft lighting and details that speak to ancient architecture. Perfect for intimate one-on-one dinners or bubbly affairs with friends, the restaurant's bold flavours and lively mood will make this Redfern arrival a bustling spot for an easygoing feast.
Mezepotamia is open Wednesday–Thursday from 5pm–10pm, Friday from 4pm–11pm and Saturday–Sunday from 12pm–10pm at 99 Redfern Street, Redfern. Head to the website for more information.
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