Yagiz

Modern Turkish restaurant, Yagiz is thriving, having found its rhythm as Chef Owner Murat Ovaz (Tulum, Four in Hand) celebrates the venue’s first year in service.

Located on South Yarra’s bustling Toorak Road in Melbourne, Yagiz invites guests to experience the flavours of modern Turkey in a vibrant atmosphere, accompanied by a new menu that demonstrates the evolution of a talented chef and his kitchen team.

A more succinct offering of smaller, accessible dishes now allows diners to experience more food and discover a host of new flavours and ingredients, with all staples made in-house including freshly baked bread, pastries and yogurts.

We loved tasting our way through their new 6 course Spring evening menu matched with wine which delivers nostalgic Turkish flavours, accented with contemporary techniques.

On the drinks front, Consultant Sommelier, Christian Maier continually evolves an open-minded wine list, with an emphasis on lesser known Turkish wines as well as smaller Australian and European producers. A vibrant cocktail list sees the signature Turkish Delight – rose infused gin, cacao, citrus, rose water, egg water remain, whilst new additions include the Princess of the Harem - vodka, lime juice, rosemary syrup, Peychauds, soda; and Magnificent Sultan - bourbon, sweet vermouth, angostura, thyme syrup.

To start a selection of mezze grace our presence first. The Hurma Dolmasi is beautiful - date, cultured goat cheese curd and pasturma. The çerkes tavuğu is another stunner and comprises of a delectable Circassian chicken paste and chives sandwiched between crispy plates of chicken skin.

For starters the Swiss chard and potato börek with yoghurt foam and sumac and the köfte are elegant iterations of the traditional. Homely yet refined and absolutely moreish.

For mains, the ever popular ördek steals the show. A dish that is back by popular demand, it’s easy to understand why this one is such a winner - Pan seared crispy skin duck breast, sticky bulgar pilaf and peach. Just. Yum.

Our evening ended on a sweet note with baklava served with a luxurious praline ice cream. The baklava rustled like leaves boasting thin and delicate layers. It was a lovely conclusion.

Ovaz welcomes diners to experience his interpretation of traditional Turkish fare, created to honour his culinary foundations while embracing modern cuisine and the multicultural influences that come with it. The restaurant is an extension of Ovaz’s home, a place where classic Turkish food, brings people together.

Location: 22 Toorak Road, South Yarra

Phone: (03) 9821 4758

Link: www.yagiz.com.au