Key facts
- Armenian-Lebanese eatery Zareh in Melbourne has been named Gourmet Traveller's restaurant of the year.
- Zareh's menu features dishes influenced by Armenian, Egyptian, and Lebanese cuisines.
- The restaurant was opened in August 2025 by co-owners Tom Sarafian and Jinane Bou-Assi.
- Previous winners of the award include Saint Peter, Attica, and Orana.
- The awards ceremony highlighted the contributions of immigrants to Australia's dining scene.
Melbourne's Armenian-Lebanese eatery Zareh has been named Gourmet Traveller's restaurant of the year, an award that has historically favored European-leaning and fine-dining establishments. The restaurant, which opened in August 2025, is co-owned by Tom Sarafian and Jinane Bou-Assi, whose diverse backgrounds inform its menu. Dishes include Egyptian flatbread made with local flour, raw minced lamb from Tasmania and Victoria, and hummus topped with spanner crab.
Sarafian described the restaurant as a "love letter" to Lebanon and a cross-cultural celebration, referencing the Armenian genocide. He also noted a potential "imposter syndrome" due to Zareh's more casual approach compared to traditional fine dining, while acknowledging the growing number of excellent Arab restaurants in Australia.
The awards ceremony in Sydney also celebrated Australia's migrant history. Beppi's, a 70-year-old Italian restaurant, received the "enduring excellence" award, with owner Marc Polese honoring immigrants. Best new talent winners Saavni Krishnan and Aditya Suresh of Melbourne's Saadi aim to showcase the breadth of Indian cuisine beyond curries. "Big" Sam Young was named restaurant personality of the year, sharing his immigrant journey from kitchen hand to restaurateur. Chef and author Stephanie Alexander received an outstanding contribution award, reflecting on her long career and influence on young hospitality professionals.
Other accolades included Melbourne's Yiaga for best new restaurant and Christian Ryan for chef of the year. The event also marked the 60th anniversary of Gourmet Traveller magazine.