Azafran is the Spanish word for saffron, a distinctive golden yellow spice from southwest Asia. As the world's most expensive spice, it is a symbol of luxury and extravagance – much like the restaurant that bears its name.
Azafran Restaurant (
97 Ekibin Road, Annerley) is an intimate owner operated restaurant that can be found on the outskirts of the CBD. It is a small venue, seating only forty-five, with a menu that combines modern Australian, European and Middle Eastern cuisines – and, of course, there's always one dish that contains saffron.
The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and offers tasting platters (which can be matched with wines) in addition to the a la carte menu. The menu's contents change seasonally to take advantage of local produce. Azafran is a licensed venue that provides a boutique range of wines and allows BYO bottled wine.
The decor is cosy and romantic, dominated by rich reds, low lighting, candles on the table and a small veranda. Due to the small size and popularity, it is recommended that customers book ahead.
The food at Azafran is nearly always perfect, but perfection comes at a price. Entrees are priced around $25.00 while mains start at $35.00. Also, the wait between ordering and receiving your meal can be lengthy, but in the majority of cases the wait is worth it.
Azafran's cosy ambience makes it the perfect place to take a date – and if you do have to wait for you meal, at least you'll have some pleasant company.
