Sahtein opened on 18 Argyle Street in the historic Argyle Stores building in The Rocks in February. Within weeks, Sitchu had named it among the best new Sydney restaurants of 2026, calling it “already a firm favourite for laidback lunches and lively dinners.” The diners who have been through the door are making the same case without being asked.
The kitchen cooks over wood fire and charcoal throughout. Executive Chef Mike Flood leads alongside Head Chef Rifat Katranci, with Culinary Director Santiago Aristizabal overseeing the kitchen. The menu is built for sharing, halal throughout, and draws directly from everyday Lebanese cooking.
What the Kitchen Is Getting Right
The Balila, warm chickpeas partly crushed, finished with brown butter, is the kind of dish that earns a second order before the table has finished the first. The charcoal grill adds depth to chicken skewers marinated with garlic and spice, the edges properly charred, the centres staying tender. Falafel, eggplant dip and cauliflower with cashew mouhamara are all pulling their weight across tables. Sitchu put it simply: “familiar flavours done well.”
Diners are returning quickly. Some are rebooked before leaving. That kind of response, one month in, reflects a kitchen executing consistently across services.
The House Banquet
For a first visit, the House Banquet is the clearest path through the menu. Breads, cold and hot mezze, and dessert — enough to cover the kitchen’s range without over-ordering. The format suits groups who want to eat broadly without the deliberation of à la carte. Portions are generous. The Grand Banquet adds grilled selections for tables that want the full spread.
Private dining is available on the upper level for groups requiring more space.
Front of House
At Sahtein, the front of house is being noticed in its own right — attentive and warm without hovering, handling large groups with the same ease as smaller tables. The combination of premium cooking and service pitched well above expectation is what diners keep mentioning.
The Setting
Sahtein is located in Argyle Stores, a sandstone building dating to 1881. Heritage pillars and exposed stone run through a room that feels warm and lived-in rather than decorated. It works for a couple, a family, or a business dinner without adjustment. The atmosphere is lively enough to feel like somewhere worth being, quiet enough to hold a conversation.
One month in, the picture is consistent. Reserve your table at Sahtein.
As featured by Sitchu, Best New Sydney Restaurants 2026.
*Sahtein practices the responsible service of alcohol. Drink responsibly.