Business Details
Experience Authentic Middle Eastern Flavours in South Yarra
Middle South East was founded on a deep passion for Middle Eastern culinary traditions, blending them with modern Australian ingredients and techniques. Our menu celebrates the vibrant spices and authentic recipes passed down from our grandmother's kitchen, sourced from Lebanon's mountain villages and reimagined with locally sourced free-range products. We specialise in creating dishes that tell stories of heritage and community, from our signature Eggs Benedict with harissa hollandaise to our Habibi Classic avocado toast. Our commitment to quality extends to every aspect of our service, where we treat every guest with the warmth and generosity rooted in Middle Eastern hospitality. Over the years, we've built a loyal community of regulars who return not only for the food but for the genuine connections formed over shared meals.We offer all-day breakfast, lunch, catering services, and event hosting in a space designed to make you feel at home. Our team takes pride in learning customers' names, remembering their favourites, and celebrating milestones together. From our Eastern Patties to Mujadara bowls, every dish honours our roots while embracing Australian innovation. We invite you to experience the fusion of cultures that defines our unique dining experience, where the aromas of baharat-spiced dishes and freshly grilled halloumi welcome you like an old friend.
Services
All-Day Breakfast
Lunch Menu
Gluten-Free Options
Catering Services
Event Bookings
Indoor Dining
Outdoor Dining
Coffee & Beverages
Pastries & Cakes
Takeaway
Highlights and features
- We offer heritage recipes reimagined with locally sourced Australian ingredients
- Our menu features authentic Middle Eastern spices imported from Lebanon's mountain villages
- We provide 24/7 personalised customer support for event bookings
- Our team has over 20 years of combined experience in Middle Eastern-Australian fusion cuisine
- We guarantee gluten-free options prepared in dedicated kitchen zones
Associations and certifications
- Restaurant Guru 2025
What people say
Fresh, creative, absolutely delicious
Friendly and attentive service
Best coffee in South Yarra
Memorable dining experiences
Top-notch juices and coffee
Services
All-Day Breakfast
Enjoy our Middle Eastern inspired breakfast menu served fresh daily from 6:30am until closing. Dishes include our signature Eggs Benedict with harissa hollandaise, corn fritters with smoked salmon, and the Habibi Classic avocado toast. Our menu blends traditional Lebanese flavours with modern Australian ingredients, offering both hearty and healthy options to start your day right.
Catering Services
We provide comprehensive catering with authentic Middle Eastern menu options for events of all sizes. From intimate gatherings to corporate functions, our team delivers freshly prepared dishes directly to your venue. Our catering includes setup, service staff, and equipment hire, ensuring your event showcases the same quality and creativity as our restaurant dining experience.
Gluten-Free Options
We offer carefully prepared gluten-free alternatives across our menu, using dedicated kitchen zones to prevent cross-contamination. Our gluten-free dishes maintain the same bold Middle Eastern flavours through traditional ingredients like freekeh, quinoa, and naturally gluten-free spice blends, allowing all customers to enjoy our culinary creations without compromise.
Event Bookings
Host your special occasion in our vibrant South Yarra venue with both indoor and outdoor spaces available. We accommodate birthdays, anniversaries, and corporate events with tailored menus and dedicated service teams. Our flexible layout suits groups from 10 to 100+ guests, featuring ambient lighting and authentic Middle Eastern decor to create memorable celebrations.
Brunchtails
Our specialty cocktail menu blends Middle Eastern spices with classic cocktail techniques. Featured drinks include the pomegranate margarita with sumac rim, rosewater martini, and our signature baharat-spiced old fashioned. Each creation pairs perfectly with our brunch and lunch menus, offering innovative flavour combinations that reflect our culinary philosophy.
Questions
What makes MiddleSouthEast's cuisine unique?
We combine traditional Lebanese and Assyrian recipes with modern Australian ingredients, creating a distinctive fusion that celebrates both heritages through dishes like our harissa hollandaise Eggs Benedict and baharat-spiced lamb.
Do you cater for dietary requirements?
Yes, we offer dedicated gluten-free options across our menu, with separate preparation areas to ensure safe dining for customers with intolerances.
Can I book for large groups or events?
We welcome group bookings of all sizes and offer tailored event packages for birthdays, anniversaries, and corporate functions with both indoor and outdoor dining options.
What are your signature beverages?
Our house blend coffee, fresh juices, and specialty brunchtails like the pomegranate margarita showcase our commitment to quality and innovation in every drink.
How do I make a reservation?
Book online for parties up to 8 people through our website, or call us directly at 03 9824 0093 for larger groups or special requests.
Reviews (6)
Jacob Lackenby
Jan 26, 2022
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One of my favourite cafes. The food is up there with some of the best brunch spots in Melbourne. A Middle Eastern twist on traditional brunches makes the food even better. On top of that, portion sizes are generous and good value for money. Coffee is also good. Very spacious with a large outdoor area as well. Pet friendly.
Vanessa Wingert
Jan 03, 2022
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Super friends staff and great outdoor area. The menu is extensive with many options and different combinations inspired by Middle East. I had the yummy sweet potatoes fritter recommended by our waiter and wow, delish!! Great good, great vibes. Do recommend
Marc
Dec 05, 2021
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Food is super tasty! One of my fav cafes. Loses one star just because the menus and tables are often sticky where they have not been wiped down properly.
Bianca Catalucci
Dec 05, 2021
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Ive been coming here for years and the service and food has always been superior for a cafe. Extensive choice of menu. Dear
Christopher O'Connor
Nov 23, 2021
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Great coffee, delicious food and awesome friendly, happy, smiling staff. Thank you for looking after me x
Jason Tabrett
Aug 13, 2021
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The food is of a good quality and I like the coffees under this ownership. I havent had one friendly interchange with staff though and that it something that makes a big difference in a competitive service industry!