In exciting news, Sydney has scored Jimmy’s Falafel, a brand new Middle Eastern eatery, bar and takeout joint.
It’s been a while since we’ve shared news of an exciting opening. But even during these strange times, we’re finding reasons to be optimistic about the future of our industry. And when it comes to delicious new venues, we’re thrilled to share this next spot with you.
Say hello the Jimmy’s Falafel, Merivale’s new Middle Eastern eatery, bar and takeout joint now open on George Street. This spot is one of the latest openings for the group as part of Justin Hemme’s reinvigoration of the Sydney CBD. Jimmy’s Falafel will be rubbing shoulders with some well known CBD spots, including the oh-so-popular Bar Totti’s, Bar Topa on Palinings Lane as well as Little Felix, Felix and Ash St. Cellar on Ash Street.
So, what can you expect at Jimmy’s Falafel? The spot is led by Head Chef Simon Zalloua’s (ex-The Collaroy, Rockpool), drawing from the cuisines and cultures of Egypt, Israel and Lebanon to create a diverse and distinctive Middle Eastern menu.
In fact, there’s an even more personal touch to the venue, as Simon’s family moved from Lebanon to Australia 50 years ago. Simon returned to the region last year to immerse himself in the food and culture of the city, heavily influencing the dishes on the menu at this new spot.
For Simon, creating a fun and accessible venue was a top priority. “We love the vibe at Jimmy’s, whether you’re grabbing takeaway lunch or fancy some mezze and a drink we want the atmosphere to be fun! Guests can also eat their lunch out on the footpath amongst the George Street hustle while old school hip hop music is blaring out of the restaurant,” Simon explains.
Jimmy’s Falafel tips its hat to the bustling takeaway kebab shops of the 60s and 70s, seeing the interiors decked out in nostalgic accents of luxe leather booths, retro light fixtures and no-fuss bar seating. Punters can choose between 2 dining options: grab-and-go from the takeaway kiosk (with a menu of vegetarian pita, plates and wraps that can be ordered on digital tablets for ease and speed) or grab a seat out back (with limited spaces available for dine-in).
On the menu, you’ll find a mix of mezze, charcoal plates to share, falafel alongside warm Lebanese bread and hummus and a bunch of rustic Lebanese dishes. As for drinks, the list has been developed by Jimmy’s Falafel Bar Manager Rowan Vidler and Merivale Group Bars Manager Sam Egerton, who has worked closely with Zalloua to ensure synchronicity with the food. Wine will have a Lebanese and Greek slant, while cocktails are based on fun classics with a Middle-Eastern spin.
Although times have been tough, the venue has been embraced by Sydneysiders with open arms. “The reception has been incredible so far. The number of guests out on the footpath enjoying their lunch makes all of us involved so excited and proud. We recently relaunched our dine-in mezze menu, we are hoping for a similar response,” tells Simon.
Jimmy’s Falafel is now open at 312 George Street, with the current hours weekdays from 11am to 8pm (but subject to change due to COVID-19. Find out more here.