Salwa's Garden Lebanese Restaurant

(3.5 stars) Salwa’s Garden feels like the last hold-out in a railway suburb that has begun its inevitable upward climb. The 1913 cottage and its well-tended and colourful garden, is sandwiched between two multi-storey blocks, opposite Oatley Park, which itself dates back to 1888. The family-style Lebanese restaurant looks like the kind of space you’re be more likely to stumble across in a rural town. Twee crockery and Lebanese comfort food, like shish-barak ($37.50)—thick and homely dumplings of lamb, pine nuts and onion in warm, creamy yoghurt—only add to this impression. We’re seated in the garden with good sun coverage, dripping greenery, and someone’s overly enthusiastic toddler that staff are cooing over. For groups there are cosy cabanas, or interior rooms with bold wall art and brightly coloured cushions. Food arrives very quickly, starting with baba ganouge ($12/small) with triangles of pita bread and deep-fried pita crisps. Tabouli ($12.90/small) is green and vibrant, light on the burghul and heavy on the mint, with more delicate acidity than most. The acidity in the fresh lemon drink ($6.90) is also subdued, this time a little too far for my liking. While pricy, plates of lamb shawarma ($33.50) tangled with lettuce and fresh herbs, and juicy wedges of grilled capsicum, feel generous. The front courtyard has its own gelato bar (if you’re left with any room), and they welcome BYO ($3/person).

The atmosphere of the restaurant is absolutely wonderful, and the outdoor seating design is beautiful. The food is delicious with authentic Lebanese dishes, and the service is excellent and fast. Prices are reasonable as well. We were delighted to meet Madam Salwa, the owner and head chef, who is very kind and truly remarkable. I highly recommend visiting this restaurant and experiencing it yourself.

Genuinely some of the best and most authentic Lebanese food I've had. Fantastic service and well curated decor. It felt like I was in a family backyard having a memorable meal. 11/10 :)

One of the best leabanese restuarants in Sydney ! The food is amzaing with so many options you'll just have to keep coming back to try everything on the menu and it is literally home made food 🙂. The atmosphere and seating area feels like having your meal in an outdoor picnic garden with all the flowers and plants around you. Also I have to point out the flexibility in moving around tables to accomodate large groups - very friendly staff with a big smile and excellent service ! Highly recommended

The food was absolutely amazing. We went during peak hour on a Saturday for lunch. Their service was perfect, friendly and helpful staff, food was better than my Taytas and I’d go back any day of the week to have their kebbee plate again! Also the restaurant isn’t called a garden for no reason. You’re literally sitting in the midst of coloured flowers and herbs. So beautiful!