Overview
Having impressed Sydneysiders since early 2015, Newtown's cult favourite Turkish ice creamery Hakiki is finally coming to Melbourne.
Two stores will open in Richmond and Fitzroy, and are slated to launch this spring and in early 2019 respectively. If Sydney's response to Nev and Zeyneb Bagriyanik's exotic Turkish treats is anything to go by, Melburnians should expect to battle crowds from day dot.
The original store has earned quite the reputation for its traditional Maras-style ice cream — which is smooth and creamy, yet drip-free and melt-resistant, until the second it hits your mouth. The signature serve is so thick, it's best tackled with a knife and fork. The ingredient that gives the ice cream this unusual texture is an orchid root grown in southern Turkey.
Alongside classic Anatolian treats like baklava, Turkish delight and rich Turkish coffee, the Bagriyaniks are whipping up a range of traditional and innovative ice cream flavours, from old favourites like pistachio and hazelnut, to the ever-popular baklava and moreish tahini. There's even an unlikely, but delicious, combination of melon and feta.
The new stores are a result of Hakiki partnering with franchise and consulting firm DC Strategy. While only two Melbourne stores are confirmed for now, there are plans in the pipeline to open additional stores throughout the rest of Australia, too.
We'll keep you posted about Hakiki's new Melbourne stores as they near launch date.
In the meantime, you can find Sydney's Hakiki at Shop 1, 63-71 Enmore Rd Newtown.