Mezepotamia: The Story Behind Redfern’s Newest Middle Eastern Gem

Eat / 21 March 2025
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Mezepotamia: The Story Behind Redfern’s Newest Middle Eastern Gem

Eat / 21 March 2025

Mezepotamia has found its new home in Redfern, bringing a considered take on the centuries-old cuisine of Mesopotamia.

The region, regarded as the birthplace of agriculture and some of the world’s first recorded recipes, informs everything from the menu to the restaurant’s name.

The move from Leichhardt marks a new chapter for the team, who have shaped the space into a mezze bar designed for long, shared meals over wine and conversation. Leading the kitchen is Chef Burak, with a rich background in Turkish, Greek, and Italian cuisines. With decades of experience in known kitchens across Turkey and Australia, he brings a deep respect for traditional techniques and carefully sourced ingredients.

The menu is built around mezze, with dishes like onion dolmas stuffed with beef, currants, and pine nuts, and a take on Ali Nazik that swaps minced lamb for aged, grass-fed steak served over smoked eggplant purée with chili butter. The drinks list reflects the team’s background in bartending, with a focus on wine pairings that complement the spice, acidity, and smokiness of the food.

Mezepotamia is still driven by the same ethos it had when it opened in 2021: food as a connection to history, culture, and community. Now, with a fresh space and an expanded vision, it’s settling into Redfern with the same philosophy—just with a few more seats at the table.