Menu of Sumac & Onion in Redfern, New South Wales, Australia

Menu Overview

Sumac & Onion, nestled on 684 Bourke St in Redfern, is a standout Turkish restaurant that masterfully brings authentic Levantine flavors to the heart of Sydney. The moment you dive into their menu, you encounter a harmony of traditional dishes that boast depth, smokiness, and vibrant freshness—qualities that reveal the passion behind every plate.

The Lamb Shish Plate is a highlight not to be missed. Featuring Pyrenees white lamb rump cooked over charcoal, the lamb is tender, smoky, and richly flavorful. It arrives accompanied by a fresh medley of lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, cucumber, and the signature chickpea basmati rice—a fragrant, fluffy bed that perfectly complements the meat. The addition of hummus, toum garlic sauce, and fresh bread ties the plate together, creating a balanced medley of textures and tastes that evoke the heart of Turkish cuisine.

For those seeking plant-based delights, the Cauliflower & Eggplant Plate is both hearty and comforting. Fried cauliflower and eggplants, dressed with tahini sauce and zaatar, marry beautifully with the sides of chickpea basmati rice, crisp salad, and house-pickled vegetables. This dish is a testament to how vegetables, when prepared with care and authentic spices, can steal the spotlight.

Dips here elevate the dining experience. The silky hummus, robust baba ganoush with its smoky charred eggplants, and the refreshing cacik—garlic yogurt blended with cucumber and mint—are all made fresh to complement the soft, warm pita bread. The pita itself is notable; crisp on the edges yet tender and pliable, it’s ideal for scooping up dips, adding a satisfying bite with every mouthful.

Other standout offerings include the Grilled Chicken Wrap and the Fried Cauliflowers side, which features fried peppers, zaatar, and a drizzle of tahini sauce—each bite bursts with layered flavors. The inclusion of traditional pickles, a medley of turnips, cucumbers, chillis, and cabbage, adds a tangy punch that cleanses the palate and balances the richer dishes.

What truly sets Sumac & Onion apart is its dedication to authentic, thoughtful preparation. From juicy chicken thighs on the Chargrilled Chicken Plate to the perfectly seasoned falafels, the kitchen delivers textures that are crunchy on the outside and tender within, marrying traditional recipes with careful execution. Customer reviews echo this sentiment, highlighting well-marinated meats, balanced spices, and an atmosphere informed by genuine passion for Turkish culture.

The restaurant’s attention to detail—manifested in dishes that are both rich and fresh, smoky and vibrant—makes each meal memorable. Whether it’s a casual lunch filled with popular takeaways like falafel wraps and chicken shawarma or a leisurely dinner exploring mezes and specialty kebaps, Sumac & Onion offers a genuine slice of Turkish culinary heritage.

In summary, for anyone seeking a deep dive into Turkish flavors in Sydney, Sumac & Onion is a culinary gem. The menu’s range—from charcoal-grilled meats and fresh salads to creamy dips and perfectly fried sides—reflects a masterful balance of tradition and innovation. This is Turkish food made with heart, smoke, and soul, a true love letter to Levantine cuisine that leaves you eager to return.