LOCATIONMidway between Balmain and Rozelle, Efendy sits just off Darling Street 10-15 minutes from the CBD over the Anzac Bridge.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIASydney may be blessed with a myriad of cuisines from far-flung places but as far as Turkish food goes, the buck has pretty much stopped at the humble kebab and pide. Not so anymore. Accomplished restaurateur Somer Sivrioglu took over Balmain’s Italian favourite, L’Unico, in late 2007. But within a matter of months Sivrioglu had decided to put it all on the line and follow his dream of establishing a modern Turkish restaurant in Sydney.
The flavours of pomegranate and cherry are perennial in Turkish cuisine, so you might like to start with a Vishenpolitan cocktail as you read through the menu and drink in the dimly lit, elegant room. Begin with a meze journey for two, a beautifully presented platter of small dishes designed to take you on a culinary tour of the flavours of Turkey. A main of Kuzu In Cik arrives as a shank of lamb with the meat falling from the bone, slow cooked in pomegranate and saffron, resting on a chickpea and barley pilaf. Duck breast in sour cherry glaze with baby fennel and brown fig salad is delightfully pink and the fresh figs are divine. The baklava is a must do for dessert no matter how full you are; or linger over another cocktail in the Mey Bar.
Amy Looker, March 2008
DETAILSThe venue is situated on the Balmain peninsula midway between Balmain and Rozelle – a short drive from the CBD. With a stunning outdoor courtyard, a separate cocktail bar and several private rooms, the restaurant is the ideal place for office parties, special occasions and sharing small plates with friends. The décor is a blend of classical and contemporary design consisting of modern Turkish art, Jorge Pensi chairs and Louis Poulsen light fittings. Previously called L’unico, the restaurant is now owned by restaurateur, Somer Sivrioglu. Following many successful years of experience in hospitality managing the Bavarian Hospitality Group and acting as operations director for Wagamama, Somer has followed his dream to create a modern Turkish concept – unique to Australian dining. Efendy’s new meze bar offers a slice of an authentic Istanbul eating house in Balmain.
Graze, drink and catch-up with friends at meze bar – for less than $25 per person. Designed to share in groups of two, three or more, meze dining had been created to complement a leisurely night of slow-graze eating, conversation and drinking Efes Pilsen Turkish beer, boutique wines all available by glass or 500ml. Carafe or ‘raki’ – the preferred Turkish spirit.
FUNCTIONSEfendy offers a variety of menus and beverage packages for events and functions. This would be a lovely location to enjoy a wedding. Providing elegant rooms and surrounds for a Wedding, Birthday or other Special Occasions, Efendy is able to tailor a dining and venue experience to suit you.