Manze

Overview

If you are not yet familiar with the bold and vibrant flavours of Mauritian cuisine, a visit to Manzé in North Melbourne will remedy that. For chef and co-owner Nagesh Seethiah, Manzé is a celebration of childhood memories of tropical flavours and island living, and a way to continue his family's connection to culture through food. 

With a charming shopfront on Errol Street, the petite space (with about 25 seats) overflows with convivial warmth and often sees diners go from visitors to regulars. With each visit, you'll likely get to experience a new Mauritian flavour or cooking technique as Nagesh's set menu is seasonally based and centred around locally farmed and fished produce. 

One might start by snacking on mussels with chilli vinegar and apple or grilled daikon with Mauritian coconut chutney, before trying Manzé's goat curry (if you're lucky). The latter has been years in the making, with the team patiently waiting for retired Meredith Dairy farm goats to be available for purchase. Marinated in Manze's masala and braised with potatoes, the hearty dish is served with woodfired Mauritian flatbread and fresh kohlrabi. 

Other goodies out of the kitchen may include octopus vindaye, a pickled dish with turmeric, lemon and mustard, or fried fish served with lemon pickle, lentil soup and rice. It is also not unusual to find a DJ set up on the kitchen pass while refreshing Mauritian rhums are being served up from the bar.   

Dinner is served Tuesday through Saturday, with the option of a three or four-course set menu, and lunch is available Thursday through Saturday for two or three courses. Given the size and popularity of the restaurant, reservations are recommended. There are a few seats reserved for walk-ins — if you're feeling lucky. 

Images: Supplied.