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Barangaroo has welcomed a new family-owned Middle Eastern restaurant and bar called Zanobia, named after the third-century warrior queen of the Palmyrene Empire in Syria.
Located on Level 1 of One International Towers Sydney, the spacious, light-filled restaurant has taken over the former Nola site. It’s from founder Jorge Ballas and his wife Jo-Anne – who are also behind Zenobia in Leichhardt and North Strathfield, as well as Beirut Street Food.
“I’ve wanted to open a version of Zanobia in the city for many years,” says Ballas, who spent his childhood in Iraq, Dubai, Syria and Lebanon.
“We loved the Leichhardt community so much, but we saw a huge opportunity in the CBD dining scene for a Middle Eastern restaurant. Our food is all about community and shared experience, and we want Zanobia to be a celebration of that.”
Come for hot and cold mezze, vibrant salads, charcoal-grilled meats and generous plates designed to be shared around the table.
Expect Middle Eastern favourites including pan-fried halloumi with raisins, pine nuts and spiced honey ($29); kibbeh nayeh with minced lamb, crushed burghul, herbs, olive oil, toum and fresh vegetables ($35); and vine leaves stuffed with rice, parsley, tomato and onion ($23).
Other menu highlights include warm, puffy Arabic bread ($8), dipped into smoky, creamy, pomegranate-topped baba ganoush ($23); a vibrant, sumac-speckled fattoush with colourful vegetables and crisp, za’atar bread ($27); and the mixed grill loaded with lamb, beef and chicken – all 100 per cent halal, marinated up to 48 hours in a house spice blend before being cooked over charcoal – served with onions, tomato, toum and village bread ($89).
Save room for dessert, too, with rose milk cake, pistachio tiramisu and saffron rice pudding on the menu (all $19).
The drinks list takes its cues from the region, with cocktails featuring flavours including za’atar, pomegranate and aniseed. There’s also arak, the traditional Lebanese spirit made from grapes and infused with aniseed, which is served tableside with water and ice.
Inside, you’ll find rich green, burgundy, rust and lilac tones, alongside velvet, leather, natural timber and stone, plus cosy alcove-style seating designed for long lunches and dinners.
Zanobia is now open at The Streets of Barangaroo.
Time for a big Middle Eastern feast?
Address: 100 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo NSW 2000
Note: I was hosted by Zanobia, but our editorial recommendations are always honest. Find out more, here.
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