Jimmy’s Falafel

The kebab shop of every city slicker’s dream.

November 11, 2024

2 / 9The bright orange dining room.Jiwon Kim

4 / 9The bigger and better version of Jimmy’s Falafel.Supplied.

7 / 9Inside Jimmy’s Falafel.Daniele Massacci

Critics' Pick

Middle Eastern$

Disclaimer

There is an ongoing investigation by The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and Good Food detailing allegations of sexual harassment, exploitation of female staff and drug use at Merivale venues. Merivale, the owner of this restaurant, has begun an internal investigation into the claims and says it is committed to “an inclusive, diverse and respectful workplace environment for our staff, as well as for our customers”. SafeWork NSW is also investigating the company.

No wonder people queue for takeaway pitas here well into the night. The hummus is earthy and thick, the falafel big on fluffiness and crunch. And the lamb kofta shish? Just as warmly spiced and juicy as you’d hope.

Still, dining in has its perks: a house hibiscus soda spiked with vodka, for starters, and the chance to cram the table with mezze. Certain dishes – the tomato-rich zucchini salad or one-note kibbe nayeh, say – may want for deeper impact, but consider it even more reason to load up on Lebanese bread, sauces and dips: faultless baba ghanoush, slick tahini, toum with a polite measure of garlic.

Service is built for high turnover and some prices will raise brows, but close with coffee-soaked dates atop coconut sorbet and you’ll head out on a high.