The Team Behind Sezar to Open New Armenian Eatery, Shukah
The Windsor restaurant will be their third.
The trio behind the CBD's family run Armenian restaurant Sezar and The Black Toro in Glen Waverley will open a third eatery in Windsor this April. Dubbed Shukah, it'll continue the family's focus on Armenian flavours, but you can expect a more casual vibe.
Shukah's menu will combine Armenian food with European and other Middle Eastern influences. "It's not traditional stuff," says executive chef Garen Maskal, who co-owns the restaurants with cousins Aret and Sasoon Arzadian (they're brothers). "But anyone familiar with those flavours will get it. There'll be a lot of spices, fresh herbs and slow-cooked meats."
The centrepiece will be a Mibrasa charcoal oven, to be imported from Spain. Maskal describes it as "an upright oven, but fully powered by charcoal and super hot — anywhere from 350 to 400 degrees." From that, you'll be getting smoky, charry meats, fish and vegetables.
Matching them will be a "small, punchy" wine list, including Lebanese, Georgian and Armenian drops, as well as a range of cocktails. On top of that, the team is collaborating with Brunswick's Kettle Green Brewing Co to come up with a unique beer that'll be light and floral to counter Shukah's spices.
Erika Lancini is taking care of the design, with pastel colours and, for seating, a mix of banquettes and high stools. A big picture window looks onto the street and there are plans to open a courtyard out the back in time for summer.
The space at 104 Chapel Street, has room for 40 inside and a few outside. "It's like a light-hearted version of Sezar," Maskal says. "It's not a bar, but you can pop in and out for a quick drink or mezze, or go the full slog."
Shukah will open at 104 Chapel Street, Windsor in April. We'll update this story once an opening date has been announced.
- Melbourne's Best Dog-Friendly Parks and Beaches for the Ultimate Pup Time
- Fifteen of the Most Unique Stays You Can Book Around New Zealand
- The Best Dog-Friendly Hotels, B&Bs and Self-Contained Getaways in Victoria
- The Mightiest Tiny Houses You Can Book Around NSW
- The 27 Best Private Dining Rooms in Melbourne
- The 40 Best Restaurants for Group Bookings in Melbourne