Maha East Is Shane Delia's Fun New Middle Eastern Wine Bar in Windsor

It's been a little under two years since star chef Shane Delia brought his lo-fi, modernised kebab offering to Windsor, setting up Biggie Smalls on Chapel Street. But now, the hip hop tunes and crinkle-cut chips are being switched out for something a little sleeker, as the venue transforms into new culinary concept Maha East.

Sibling to Delia's acclaimed CBD restaurant Maha, the reimagined Windsor space will soon be showcasing the same elevated Middle Eastern flavours and contemporary flair, only with a more relaxed edge. While the original Maha is known for its degustation-driven dining options, guests at the Chapel Street newcomer will find themselves faced with a little more choice and a slightly fatter wallet at the end of a feed.

Delia and Head Chef Simon Lillico are still adding the final touches to the Maha East food offering, though we do know that both lunch and dinner will offer the option of a la carte or a share-style set menu. Whatever you choose, get set for a mix of tried-and-true favourites and creative new dishes, from slow-roasted lamb shoulder and famed turkish delight doughnuts to the likes of fried buns filled with taramasalata and topped with salmon caviar, and house-baked breads with hummus and a Persian saffron XO.

Brook James

The drinks program is set to be a major focus, too, with a 120 bottle-strong wine list heroing both old-world styles and more contemporary drops, alongside Maha's full lineup of signature cocktails. Yes, that means the legendary Pomegranate Sour will be be making an appearance.

Meanwhile, the design of the 40-seat restaurant will favour the timeless, pulling together a suave mix of bronze-edged stone, walnut panelling and rich green accents.

If you'd still like a taste of Delia's lo-fi kebabs, fear not — you can still visit the original Biggie Smalls outpost in Collingwood.

Find Maha East at 36 Chapel Street, Windsor from Thursday, June 27. It'll be open for dinner daily and lunch on Saturday and Sunday.

Images: Brook James