In Lebanese culture, food is much more than nourishment — it's an act of generosity, a way to connect, and a central part of hospitality. At the centre of this tradition is mezze — a collection of small dishes served before or alongside the main meal. If you're dining at the best Lebanese restaurant Sydney, the mezze spread is likely to be the first thing that greets you.

But mezze is more than just a starter. It's a ritual of sharing, tasting, and enjoying — a perfect introduction to the flavours and values of Lebanese cuisine.

What Exactly Is Mezze?

Mezze is a selection of small savoury dishes, typically served with warm Lebanese bread. It includes both cold and hot items, designed to be shared at the table. It's not one specific dish, but rather a collection of tastes and textures that complement one another.

Mezze can be light and fresh, rich and comforting, or a mix of both. It allows diners to experience a range of flavours without committing to just one main plate. The variety also makes it ideal for groups — there's something for every palate.

Cold Mezze: The Flavours Begin

A mezze spread often starts with cold dishes, offering a refreshing introduction to the meal. Popular cold mezze options include:

  • Hummus – Creamy chickpea dip with tahini, lemon and garlic

  • Baba Ghanouj – Roasted eggplant blended with tahini and lemon

  • Garlic Labneh – Thick yoghurt with garlic and olive oil

  • Stuffed Vine Leaves – Filled with rice, herbs, and tomato

  • Tabbouleh – A parsley-based salad with bulgur, tomato, and lemon

  • Fattoush – A crunchy salad with toasted bread and sumac dressing

These dishes are often accompanied by warm, soft Lebanese bread, used to scoop up the dips and salads. It's a casual, interactive way to eat — no cutlery needed, just conversation and shared plates.

Hot Mezze: Crisp, Warm, and Savoury

Once you've sampled the cold options, hot mezze adds texture and depth. These items are often freshly fried or baked, and arrive at the table warm and inviting. Common hot mezze dishes include:

  • Falafel – Crispy on the outside, soft inside, often served with tahini sauce

  • Sambousik – Crescent-shaped pastries filled with spiced meat or cheese

  • Spinach Triangles – Light pastry parcels filled with seasoned spinach

  • Cheese Rolls – Fried pastry filled with melting white cheese

  • Makanek – Spiced Lebanese sausages sautéed in lemon juice or pomegranate molasses

The mix of temperatures and textures keeps the dining experience engaging and dynamic.

Built for Sharing

Perhaps the most defining trait of mezze is that it's meant to be shared. The dishes are placed in the centre of the table, and everyone helps themselves. This encourages conversation, connection, and a slower pace of eating — where the focus is as much on the people as on the food.

In fact, ordering mezze is a popular choice at the best Lebanese restaurants in Sydney because it suits both large groups and more intimate meals. It offers variety without excess, and encourages diners to try something new.

A Flexible and Inclusive Spread

Mezze is also incredibly inclusive. It naturally caters to a wide range of dietary needs and preferences. Whether you're vegetarian, looking for gluten-light options, or simply prefer seafood or grilled items, the mezze selection offers something for everyone.

Because many dishes are plant-based, like hummus, baba ghanouj, or stuffed vine leaves, it's easy to build a satisfying spread without meat — though meat lovers will still enjoy hot items like makanek or sambousik.

In summary, mezze is more than just a prelude to the main course — it's a defining feature of Lebanese cuisine. It brings people together, creates variety on the table, and celebrates the joy of sharing food. Whether you're a first-timer or a long-time fan, the mezze spread offers a flavourful introduction to the values that shape Lebanese dining.

So next time you visit the best Lebanese restaurant in Sydney, start your meal the traditional way — with mezze, warm bread, and good company.