Yagiz is named after founder and chef, Murat Ovaz’s grandfather. Murat’s style and vision were heavily influenced by the authentic hues of his grandfather and for a short time now Yagiz has brought modern Turkish cuisine to South Yarra.
Located on Toorak Road, Yagiz is a beautifully light-filled space which seamlessly combines modern and authentic. On the day, we were seated by the window which was a gorgeous spot to watch the word go by. There are quaint touches of authentic in every corner of the restaurant and it’s well worth walking through when you arrive. The little touches add to its depth of authenticity, for example, I loved that the hefty crystal water glasses had been imported from Turkey.
Recently Yagiz has introduced bottomless wine lunches and we were fortunate enough to attend. At $49 for several wines, entree and main this is easily the best value lunch that I have found in Melbourne.
We started with the white Buzbağ wines and a delicious house-made sourdough with smoked butter. Following quickly on the heels of this, were scrumptious stuffed cheese and pastrami skewers with figs. I’d definitely recommend eating the figs and pastrami together. The saltiness of the pastrami when mixed with the sweetness of the figs is just heaven. In addition to this, we were treated to confit of duck cigars with black pepper flakes. Just divine.
By this stage, we were about two and half wines in and it was time for the main course. Our lovely sommelier suggested that we switch to the red wine for the mains. It was feast for the senses. Beautifully pink lamb with dried yoghurt and egg plant chips, the juiciest duck breast I have ever had with bulgar rice and grilled peaches and a mountain of baby potatoes that had been fried in duck fat. To say that we were well fed would be an understatement!
Yagiz is a young restaurant with a fantastic team behind it. I love Murat’s story as a young immigrant making his way in Australia and suspect that his grandfather would have been mighty proud of what he has achieved.
Bottomless wine lunches happen every Friday and Saturday from 12-2pm. For mine, it’s by far the best value lunch in the city and I couldn’t help but think the perfect date spot!
Rukmal
Co-founder of The Plus Ones, Rukmal lives and breathes events.
Disclosure: The Plus Ones were invited guests of Yagiz
Photo credits: Yagiz
Yagiz Restaurant
22 Toorak Road
South Yarra
