Nour

Overview

The recently hatted Nour sits on a leafy stretch of Crown Street that's forever buzzing with stylistic Sydney wanderers and those enjoying long brunches on tables and chairs covering the footpath. The expertly fitted-out blush-pink restaurant welcomes diners in for a spread of contemporary Middle Eastern dishes from executive chef Paul Farag and head chef Gianluca Lonati.

The wide-reaching a la carte menu sees a mezze list that takes you from simple oceanic delights like freshly shucked oysters ($6) and single Tasmanian scallops with a spoonful of xo ($9), all the way through to the simply special. Housemade areesheh cheese backdrops a vibrant pistachio ezme ready to top a perfectly crisp and flaky malawach ($24); and a creamy beef nayeh is underscored by the nuttiness of macadamia toum, to be scooped up via a floatily light rice cracker sprinkled with dukkah ($28).

Perfected for sharing, the post-mezze menu splits into 'from the coal grill' and 'from the garden' — and will cater for all. Dry-aged steaks and glazed lamb shoulders are transformed with ingredients like black lime and barberries, caramelised tahini and fresh chermoula. The tang of fattoush salad (which should be a non-negotiable for your table) can be offset with a plate of fried cauliflower that brings woodfired grapes and a sprinkling of smoky almonds too.

Ensure you've left room for your selection from the dessert menu, and take all the stress of what to order out of the equation by opting for either of the generous banquet options ($89pp or $119pp).

Although you're spoilt for choice in this part of Surry Hills, the eating and drinking on offer at Nour is standout. It's fine dining plates, which don't lose any points on flavour, in a refined casual setting ready to host you solo, duo or in groups. Looking to celebrate? Looking to lean into a lush long lunch? Simply after an exceptional meal where the menu spoils you for choice? Head to Nour.

Top image: Jason Loucas