LOCATIONAt the Capitol Theatre Centre, near the corner of Franklin Street and Flinders Way.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIAWith starch white tablecloths, warm lighting and classic decor, Saffron restaurant is undoubtedly one of the more delightful venues in Canberra. The restaurant has been part of the Manuka scene for many years and over that time has attracted a faithful clientele. Saffron’s menu is defined as East Mediterranean, offering dishes from a variety of cuisines including Greek, Turkish, Armenian and Lebanese. For diners whose sole experience with these cuisines has been pides or kebabs, Saffron will be a revelation. This restaurant showcases the cuisines of the eastern Mediterranean in all their glory and combines them with a comprehensive wine list and what is best described as a touch of French style.
Some of the many entrees available at Saffron include baby calamari fried with herbs and spices and served with homemade tartare sauce as well as the traditional
jebne (pastry topped with crumbed and fried Cypriot haloumi cheese, lemon juice and dill). The mains at Saffron focus on quality meat and seafood which are highlighted through the use of spices and marinades. Diners can choose from options such as
samkeh harrah (Basa dory fillet baked in chilli sauce and coriander, topped with roasted nuts) and the popular Armenian dish
castalita (lamb cutlets marinated with tomato puree, red wine, hot chilli and olive oil). In addition, there is a tempting dessert menu, blackboard specials and a range of banquet options that are well suited to larger parties. To match the food, Saffron offers more than 120 wines and has been nominated for wine list of the year. As evident by the plaques on the wall, Saffron has won a host of different awards, including 2006 and 2009 “Specialty Restaurant of the Year” and 2008 “Middle Eastern Restaurant of the Year”. Saffron is open seven days for lunch and dinner but bookings are highly recommended.
Elizabeth Hall