Review: Lillah Middle Eastern Lane Cove

Eat, Restaurants, Sydney / 14 September 2023

Lillah is a hidden gem that can easily be overlooked as you stroll by. Once inside, you’ll be embraced by the warmth of Middle Eastern hospitality that infects everyone who steps through the door. Conveniently located just around the corner from the village green, Lillah offers the same level of culinary excellence as renowned city establishments by Somer Sivrioğlu (Maydanoz, Efendy, and Anason).

Every dish at Lillah is prepared on-site and carries the comforting flavours of our travels through Tunisia, Turkey, and Egypt, all with a modern twist. For example, their Baba Ghanoush is made from an entire roasted eggplant, its flesh hand-chopped with lemon, tahini, and garlic, and then skillfully returned to its skin for serving. This exquisite dish is accompanied by house-made Labneh Hummus and Pita Bread.

Their set menu is a must-try, offering exceptional value and a delightful array of flavours and textures. From the crispy Fattoush Salad to the tender, slow-cooked Lamb Shoulder that practically falls off the bone, Lillah’s cuisine is a celebration of Middle Eastern flavours, prepared with meticulous care and modern expertise.

When it comes to dessert, the Medjool Date Brûlée is a highlight—a silky custard with a date puree base, perfectly sweetened and crowned with a delightful crunch of toffee and pistachios.

Lillah pleasantly surprises as a neighborhood restaurant, and if I were fortunate enough to live nearby, I’d undoubtedly be a regular visitor. And for the vegetarians, have no fear as Lillah is a paradise with a multitude of flavourful options.

Should you have the chance to chat with owner Gaurav, you’ll immediately sense his innate hospitality, making your dining experience feel like a gathering at a long-lost friend’s place. Find out more here.