Meet Northcote's New (and Only) Algerian Restaurant, Camus

Chef Pierre Khodja will draw inspiration from his native Algeria, as well as the lessons he learnt from his mother, at his brand new restaurant Camus.

Opening this week on High Street, the 100-seat eatery takes its name from Albert Camus, a French-Algerian who lived under French colonial occupation. The name reflects Khodja's desire to return to his roots and celebrate the food of his homeland. "For many years I've worked for other people, cooking with one hand tied behind my back," said Khodja. "Finally, with Camus, I get to cook with both hands."

The chef also paid tribute to his mother, who fed eight children on a shoestring. "She was my first inspiration and my teacher," said Khodja. "To this day, I still revisit those meals that take me back to where my passion was born."

Blending North African flavours with classical French cooking techniques, the menu will place an emphasis on hearty share dishes like steamed and seared goat shoulder with sweet onion and raisins, and ras el hanout-marinated organic chicken with green olives, saffron and preserved lemon.

Camus will also offer a number of vegetarian options, such as spinach, kale, cinnamon and feta lasagne, and blue cheese and broccoli macaroni. Dessert options, meanwhile, will include Turkish delight soufflé and pistachio ricotta doughnuts, the latter of which will be served with lavender honey and preserved lemon ice cream.

The multi-storey restaurant will boast ample indoor seating as well as a bar, an outdoor garden area for al fresco dining, and a private dining room for special events.

Camus is now open at 61 High Street, Northcote. For more information visit camusrestaurant.com.au.