Get ready Merrylands – a fresh new restaurant offering mouthwatering Middle Eastern cuisine is on the way.
Led by Jeremy Agha and located on Main Lane, IFTAR is serving up authentic Middle Eastern flavours with a modern twist.
Each dish on the menu reflects a connection to heritage, crafted to honour Agha’s family legacy while redefining Middle Eastern dining.
IFTAR’s name – meaning ‘break-fast’ in Arabic – is both a nod to the joy of sharing food and a heartfelt tribute to Agha’s mother, Rita, whose recipes form the backbone of the menu.
“The hidden meaning is, IFTAR can’t be spelt without the letters of her name – there’s no IFTAR without Mum. It’s as much her story as it is mine,” Agha said.
The menu has been designed to invite guests to gather around a table overflowing with small plates and hearty mains, perfect for sharing in true Middle Eastern fashion.
Signature offerings are set to include richly spiced manoush, batata harra, lamb shawarma tacos and eggplant fatteh, alongside modern creations like wagyu kofta dumplings.
Central to the menu is the woodfired sourdough bread, a family recipe and special tradition that has been passed down through generations.
“Middle Eastern dining is about so much more than food, it’s the experience of filling a table with loved ones, sharing stories and savouring flavours together,” Agha added.
“At IFTAR, we want every guest to feel that warmth and generosity, as though they’ve been welcomed into our home.”
Agha’s journey in hospitality began at his family’s Lebanese bakery, where he cultivated a passion for food, tradition and community.
At IFTAR, this passion is brought to life through a thoughtful balance of authentic recipes and contemporary influences. By respecting the roots of Middle Eastern cuisine while embracing fresh ideas and techniques, IFTAR promises to offer an elevated dining experience that stays true to heritage while appealing to modern tastes.
“IFTAR isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a place to connect. Whether you’re sharing a meal with family, celebrating with friends or simply exploring new flavours, IFTAR is here to create moments and memories,” Agha said.
IFTAR will officially open its doors on Saturday, January 18 and trade Monday to Sunday from 7am to 3pm.
For more details, visit http://www.instagram.com/iftarmerrylands.
Ellie Busby is a news reporter for Western Sydney Publishing Group. A graduate of the University of Hertfordshire and Western Sydney University, she is a journalism Major. Ellie has worked with Universal Media, The Cova Project and for a range of other organisations. In 2024, Ellie was named Young Writer of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.