Jimmy’s Falafel
The kebab shop of every city slicker’s dream.
Middle Eastern$
Disclaimer
In October 2024, The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and Good Food detailed allegations of sexual harassment, exploitation of female staff and drug use at Merivale venues. Merivale, the owner of this restaurant, began an internal investigation into the claims and said it is committed to “an inclusive, diverse and respectful workplace environment for our staff, as well as for our customers”. SafeWork NSW also began investigating the company. In June 2025 and July 2025, further allegations of exploitation and underpayment of Merivale workers were made, and Fair Work confirmed it was investigating the company. Merivale has denied all allegations against it. The investigation remains ongoing.
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.
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Original URL: https://www.theage.com.au/goodfood/nsw-good-food-guide/jimmy-s-falafel-20231222-p5etbu.html