Dunyazad

Aladdin’s Cave

Glowing lanterns. Exotic fabrics. Ornaments. And a vivid ‘Arabian Nights’ mural. No we’re not talking about the movie set of Aladdin. We’re talking about the lively Middle Eastern restaurant, Dunyazad. Located just off the main drag in North Balwyn, this neighbourhood gem doesn’t give much away from the outside, but inside, it's like Aladdin’s cave. The menu is authentically Middle Eastern with intricately spiced and flavoured dishes like samkee harrah (fish of the day seasoned with garlic, coriander and walnuts, topped with tahina sauce and paprika) and vegetarian betijan (fried eggplant with yoghurt and mint sauce on a bed of saffron rice served with green beans). Come on Friday and Saturday nights for an even livelier dining experience, and watch in awe as the dazzling belly dancers put on a showstopping performance.