Maha has been going strong for 11 years now in Melbourne’s CBD with its top-notch Middle Eastern inspired food. Shane Delia and his team have decided to expand into the South Eastern Suburbs, adding a little of their Maha magic to Chapel Street.
Shane is keen to emphasise that freshly opened Maha East is not just another Maha. Simon Lillico, long time Sous Chef at Maha has moved over to head the kitchen at their newest venture which boasts relaxed, loosely inspired Middle Eastern dishes in share style format.
The menu will feature a balance between established Maha favourites, like Turkish delight doughnuts and slow roasted lamb shoulder, and new creations, such as taramasalata filled fried buns with salmon caviar and house baked breads with hummus and Persian saffron XO. Delia is keen to share more of the food he cooked with family, explaining “I want to teach my team the secrets my family taught me, like how to get pastry extra flaky and how to balance spice, heat and flavour.”
Drinks will also be a focus – with Maha’s signature cocktails including the popular Pomegranate Sour being one of the things that will harmonise the two venues. On the wine list, there will be around 120 bottles, consisting of both new and old-world wines and some unexpected treasures, hand-picked by the team’s Sommelier and Restaurant Manager, Ross Frame.
Overall, the vibe looks to be casual, easy-going and friendly – with big tunes, great food and staff that will know your name, and your drinks order. Pulling back from the purely high-end dining, it’ll be a place for long lunches or sipping cocktails with a side of meze. Of course, there’s still a 4 course banquet, similar to the one that made Maha so successful in the first place, but Maha East is going to be less the special-occasions-only venue and more one that’s going to creep into your every day routine!
Maha East – The Info
Website: http://www.mahaeast.com.au/
Address: 36 Chapel Street, Windsor
Opening Times:
Mon 5pm to late
Tue 5pm to late
Wed 5pm to late
Thu 5pm to late
Fri 5pm to late
Sat 11:30am to late
Sun 11:30am to late
Parking: There’s always somewhere to park in and around Chapel Street. You may have to go for a paid spot or have a short walk, but let’s be honest, you’re going to want to try their signature cocktails anyway, so maybe leave the car at home.
Getting here on PT: A stone’s throw from Windsor Station, or on the 78 tram route it’s an easy reach by public transport.