Years of persistence will allow diners at Sydney’s Bekya, in the city’s Harold Park Tramsheds precinct, to wash the restaurant’s authentic Middle Eastern food down with authentic Egyptian beer.

Over several trips to the country, Bekya co-founder Wally Mostafa prevailed on Al Ahram Beverages to allow him to import their Stella, Sakara Gold and Meister Max beers to Australia, finally winning export approval earlier this year.

“The idea with Bekya from the outset was to provide our customers with a holistic Middle Eastern experience,” says Mostafa. “And the beers complete that.”

So what can diners expect from each of the three beers? Here’s the delicious. guide:

Sakara Gold (4% alcohol)

The new kid on the block in the Egyptian beer market. Slightly golden in colour, with a white head that fades quickly into a ring around the glass. A little spicy on the nose, with an interesting twist on the typical yeast aroma. Fairly mild and refreshing.

Best drunk: poolside in the summer sun

Stella Egyptian Lager (4.5% alcohol)

The most famous beer brand in Egypt, and made there since 1897. Stella pours to a golden colour with an average white head that soon. Delivers a hoppy aroma of average strength.

Best drunk: with a selection of Middle Eastern dips, chips and bread

Meister Max (8% alcohol)

A European brand licenced and produced in Egypt, and the country’s strongest beer. Despite its strength, it still has a very smooth and refreshing flavour. Slightly sweet and husky nose with a light touch of lemon.

Best drunk: an accompaniment to full-flavoured Middle Eastern meat dishes