Al Nafoura — Restaurant in Melbourne

I've been debating whether to share my thoughts on my recent experience at Al Nafoura, a place where I've been a regular for quite some time. Generally, it's been a conveniently local spot for Middle Eastern cuisine and shisha, but my recent visit left me with my blood boiling.

My previously positive experiences with the restaurant, largely attributed to the exceptional service provided by Oliva. Every visit had been a pleasure, thanks to her hospitality and outstanding customer service skills. Finding staff with her level of dedication and service is truly rare these days.

Based on my most recent experience, I have decided not to return any time soon. Unaware of the live entertainment scheduled for that night, I made a reservation at the restaurant. Upon arrival, we were seated away from the main seating area, leading me to conclude they were likely fully booked due to the entertainment.

Despite being fully booked, the service we experienced that night cannot be justified. We arrived when the restaurant was essentially empty. Our meals were left uncleared after we finished eating, and the remained on the table until we left.

We were initially given two coals for our shisha, usually this would be adequate if the coals were up to temperature, which they were not.

The coals were only replaced once, and it was changed one coal at a time, with promises of additional ones once heated, which, unfortunately, never happened. The temperature of the coals resulted in thin and tasteless smoke which was a complete waste of money.

When we wanted to order a drink, it took us close to an hour to gain the attention of the staff member, as they would ensure not to make eye contact with any other tables than the ones they were serving.

We attempted to enjoy the music despite the shisha not being smokable. It was during this moment that I overheard aggressive yelling from a male, whom I assume to be either the manager or owner of the restaurant.

I personally witnessed him berating a young female waitress. In disbelief, I asked the people at my table if they had heard or seen the incident, and they confirmed that they were unaware of what had transpired.

Despite my efforts to move past the unsettling scene, the same male proceeded to, once again, aggressively lash out at another female employee.

I couldn't suppress my frustration; my blood was boiling, and I didn't bother hiding it on my face. I was visibly infuriated, and as I was bringing this to the attention of the people at my table, the gentleman working at the bar seemed to notice my reaction and appeared visibly embarrassed on behalf of the boss for his inappropriate actions.

I finished my drink and abruptly collected my belongings to head to the counter to pay, as I did not want to be in that environment any longer. I was utterly outraged by what I witnessed, and I had reached my limit. I approached one of the waitresses that he yelled at and advised her that I saw what happened and it is not okay whether he is your boss or not; it is wildly unacceptable.

Unfortunately, there is a stereotype associating Middle Eastern men with being aggressive. As I myself am Middle Eastern I find it disheartening when the stereotypes are validated through public displays like this. The true essence of our culture is found in our hospitality, our food, and our appreciation for family and community; not aggression.. Being from this background does not serve as a justifiable excuse for aggression, especially towards women or anyone else.

Just because there is an existing stereotype about Middle Eastern men being aggressive it does not give you a rite of passage to behave so. There is a clear oversight in self-awareness regarding an anger issue and an obvious inability to effectively communicate. I hope they see this review and use it as an opportunity for reflection and personal growth.

This recent experience has given me the ick, and I do not see myself returning any time soon. I do not want to be supporting somebody who treats their...

We visited on a Sunday night when it was hardly busy. We ordered the banquet and it took 50 mins for the appetisers to come out. We really enjoyed the appetisers but it took another half an hour for the entree to come out. The entree was really nice how ever there was some issues with quality control because we were served the entree 3 times. You think we would have known that they were all the same but all three plates were different, we thought we were being served different flavours of chicken wings and sausages. First plate entree had 3 wings some sauce on the wings and small sausages. The second plate came out then it was wings with no sauce and medium sizes sausages- so we thought okay its different to the last plate. Then the third plate came out and 2 wings with no sauce and large sausages. The waiter also did not announce what round of the banquet we were having, if we had known we would have said we've already had this plate. So 1.5 hours goes by and we've eaten all that thinking where is all the other food. We asked the wait staff and they said oh you havent had anything else? We explained what we had and they realised we havent been served our mains yet. Finally the mains come out and the food was average and chicken extremely dry.

All this happened while we noticed the family that came after us still didn't have their food. I noticed they were annoyed because their kids were hungry. They said They been waiting there for 50 mins, finally 1 hour later they got there food and there chicken was cold, they didn't want it and left to go maccas, what was disappointing they were still asked to pay for their jug of coke and milkshake. (pretty poor they were asked to pay still) I had also noticed that a full table that came 30 mins after the family next to me had ordered much later and got their food first ( way before the family next to me) just because they were friends with the owner.

I sincerely hope they can organise their staff better because i would love to go back again but not have to wait 2 hours to finish my meal. I can see the potencial and hope the owners can take all their reviews seriously.

Sorry for the negative review, i hope you guys...

From the moment you step into Al Nafoura, you are transported to a Lebanese haven where tradition meets modernity. The name 'Al Nafoura,' which translates to 'fountain,' truly reflects the essence of this establishment as a source of rich, authentic Lebanese flavors in the heart of Melbourne. The ambiance is a blend of elegance and coziness, making it a perfect spot for both casual dinners and special celebrations. The interior décor resonates with the warm, vibrant culture of Lebanon, providing a comforting and inviting atmosphere. The menu is a delightful journey through Lebanon's culinary landscape, offering a vast array of dishes that cater to diverse palates. Each dish is prepared with fresh ingredients and homely love, ensuring a taste that is authentic and satisfying. The variety also extends to accommodating different dietary preferences, making it a welcoming place for everyone. The service at Al Nafoura is commendable. The staff are courteous, attentive, and take pride in delivering a seamless dining experience. They are well-versed with the menu, ready to offer recommendations based on individual preferences, making the dining experience personal and enjoyable. To sum up, Al Nafoura is not merely a restaurant; it's a Lebanese culinary experience that leaves a lasting impression on your palate and heart. Whether you are a fan of Lebanese cuisine or exploring it for the first time, Al Nafoura is a must-visit destination that promises a delightful and memorable...