Enter the CBD basement restaurant via Bond St, and discover a sleek, black-and-gold dining room humming with conversation and tingling with aromatic spices. Choose from one of two seasonal set menus, which include an overwhelming number of addons – something a Maha regular wouldn’t bat an eyelid over but may be head-scratchingly confusing for first-timers. 

The soufra (fill my table) menu is great value and includes a smorgasbord of mezze, larger share plates and sweets – as well as what is arguably Melbourne’s best hummus. The toppings change regularly, but the impossibly creamy chickpea dip is whipped into a smoky cloud and scooped into your mouth with warm za’atar-dusted bread.

The lamb shoulder and smoked rice are more substantial dishes, while three desserts flavoured with apple, chocolate and rose pair nicely with Maha’s signature crimson tea blend. As an added bonus, all guests are given a “secret spice” jar as a nod to Delia’s spice journey. 

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