The destination: Bamiyan, an Afghan eatery opened in August 2011 set in an eye-catching, cheery yellow painted building in the unexpected locale of otherwise-Italian Five Dock.
The vibe: Warm, comfortable and welcoming.
The eats: An extensive and enticing menu reveals Afghan cuisine’s influences, from India and Nepal to the Middle East. There are delicious dumplings, pumpkin stuffed naan bread, beef, lamb and chicken curries, and tasty vegetarian dishes like banjan boranee (fried eggplant with a yoghurt and tomato dressing). Our standout dish was the Kabuli pallow, a fragrant platter of rice studded with spices and served with a creamy chicken korma.
The verdict: Impeccable customer service, an open fireplace, delicious, fragrant and spicy eats and the unexpected boon of a liquor licence make Bamiyan the ultimate winter warming restaurant. A wonderful introduction to Afghanistan’s varied, exotic and delicious cuisine.
More info: Check out these reviews on fabulous food blog Grab Your Fork, Time Out Sydney and News.com.au
Bamiyan, 175 First Avenue, Five Dock. Tel: 029712 7801