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Dishing out good vibes

The Hills’ dynamic duo Josh and Matt Elbayeh have shown that hard work, good food and a positive attitude can go a long way.

Chicken fatoush salad from Cafe El's in Winston Hills.
Chicken fatoush salad from Cafe El's in Winston Hills.

The Hills’ dynamic duo Josh and Matt Elbayeh have shown that hard work, good food and a positive attitude can go a long way.

The brothers’ first venture, Cafe El’s, has become a bustling hub for diners wanting a leisurely brunch with friends, a relaxed lunch with family or a quick meal to go.

The Mediterranean-inspired menu and generous serves have locals coming back – particularly on weekends, where there can be queues for a table.

Cafe El’s meals come in generous serves.
Cafe El’s meals come in generous serves.
Blueberry smoothie.
Blueberry smoothie.

The brothers, who also own the nearby El Burger inside Winston Hills Mall and grew up learning the hospitality ropes at their family’s El-Phoenician Restaurant in Parramatta, took over the space six years ago.

At the time it was an Italian restaurant, but Josh and Matt soon put their El-twist on it.

“Ever since then, we refurbed, we changed the menu a lot,” Josh said.

The formula has worked – the brothers recently opened a second Cafe El’s in Shellharbour.

Marinated peri peri chicken served with corn and a fresh, herby potato salad.
Marinated peri peri chicken served with corn and a fresh, herby potato salad.

A close-knit staff with a passion for food and friendly service has been key to the success.

“It’s a welcoming environment, we know all our (regular) customers by name,” Josh said.

What: Breakfast and lunch served in a bustling cafe

Where: Winston Hills Mall, 64/180 Caroline Chisholm Dr, Winston Hills

When: 7am-5pm weekdays, 7am-4pm weekends

Details: facebook.com/cafeels.au or 9624 7595

The lamb salad has great texture and crunch.
The lamb salad has great texture and crunch.

Original URL: https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/hills-shire-times/dishing-out-good-vibes/news-story/bb54f21a24b5afa6296fca3e526cfb9a