What is it? An exploration of the Turkish coastline by the all-star crew behind the celebrated Nour. Aalia is so spesh that it won Best Fine Dining Restaurant in our Time Out Sydney Food & Drink Awards 2022. Executive chef Paul Farag dances between the flavours and ingredients of his own Egyptian background while turning the screw on preconceived notions of Middle Eastern fare.
Why we love it: The regional Turkish dishes are so complex in execution that a crash-course tutorial by your waiter is required, with delicious results. Exceptional dishes are matched by an exceptional wine list by sommelier Eleonore Wulf, showcasing largely Australian winemakers with a few hops abroad to Lebanon and France for good measure. Just as elegant as the libations is the venue itself, thanks to architect Matt Darwon.