Victorian restaurants win major Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Awards

The Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Awards have announced their winners, with Victorian establishments securing several major honors. Tom Sarafian’s Middle Eastern wine bar and diner, Zareh, was named Restaurant of the Year in both the state and national categories.

In the Best New Restaurant category, Hugh Allen’s Yiaga was recognized for redefining fine dining standards. The Best New Talent award was given to Saavni Krishnan and Aditya Suresh for their Indian eatery, Saadi, which focuses on elevated ferments, pickles, and chutneys.

Additionally, Stephanie Alexander received the Outstanding Contribution to Hospitality award for her long-standing commitment to Australian food culture. The awards highlight a diverse culinary landscape in Melbourne, ranging from traditional Middle Eastern flavors to contemporary fine dining and specialized Indian cuisine.