Sahara

Profiled by de Groots Media
You might never have known it was there: an unassuming doorway wedged between shopfronts and a narrow staircase is the only coy invitation to this inner city sanctuary. One floor up, and the hodgepodge “arts and crafts” decor and exposed brick walls make for a quiet and cosy meeting place. Sahara treads carefully between catering to formal white-linen dining occasions, and laid back food sharing affairs. Here, customers make the most of a working lunch, or drop in for an after-work glass of red.

You’ll instantly recognise the menu here where meals come served without jargon or pretension. Notice that your souvlaki or chicken burger comes with a difference. A gourmet attention to detail makes its way into the simplest of dishes – chips are made on the premises from chopping to seasoning, and their mayonnaise is a special in-house recipe. The most popular dishes include Moroccan lamb stew, and the antipasto platter is great for casual dining and sharing. Vegetarian options include a roast vegetable salad with goat’s cheese, with mains ranging from $14.50- $29.50. Chef Rob Gouty does the shopping for all the fresh produce personally at the local Queen Victoria markets, often getting new meal ideas from discussions with food vendors there. Sahara is also available for functions, catering for light meals and drinks as well as larger groups with bookings.

Jenni Kauppi