The excitement – and rich aroma of garlic and roasted capsicum – is palpable from the moment you step into the sleek, modern space of Al Aseel Chatswood Chase. Already a beloved Lebanese restaurant group in Sydney renowned for its true-to-tradition cuisine and affordable fare, Al Aseel arrives at Chatswood Chase having cemented itself as a Sydney institution with seven thriving locations over the last 15 years.

When you step into the group’s new location, on the ground floor of the fresh food and dining precinct, you’re greeted by a stylish interior that sets the scene for more than just a meal. The backlit marbled bar and sleek dark timber tables create an elevated but inviting atmosphere. The place buzzes with energy and the staff, with their big smiles and enthusiastic greetings, make you feel right at home as they effortlessly adjust tables and chairs to fit your group. It’s a great spot for larger gatherings – there’s no need for quiet conversations or sticking to a set menu.

The food itself is a feast for the senses and encourages conviviality with a range of small plates. From the velvety garlic toum, to the subtly smoky baba ganoush, every dish is balanced and a masterclass in marrying texture and flavour. The juicy lamb kebabs, paired with barbecue chicken and herb-infused kafta, are simply irresistible.

But while the team are intent on bringing authentic, dependable Lebanese cuisine to Chatswood, they are equally committed to experimenting with how they can create dishes that incorporate the freshest and highest quality local ingredients. Take the Samkeh Sayadieh, for example. A delightful fusion of spring creek barramundi with spicy pine-nut laden rice, the dish seamlessly blends elements of traditional Lebanese cuisine in an innovative way that feels equally inspired by Sydney’s culinary culture.

“What distinguishes our Chatswood restaurant is how unique the cuisine is to the area,” shares the enthusiastic team behind Al Aseel. “We are delighted to introduce authentic Lebanese cuisine to Chatswood Chase for the first time, enhancing the diversity of dining options available.”

Each meal here should end – as they do in Beirut – with a punchy Lebanese coffee, spiced just right with cardamom. Al Aseel isn’t just another restaurant; it’s a vibrant new spot that brings a slice of Lebanon right to Chatswood Chase.