Joseph Abboud’s beloved Lebanese restaurant is leaving Lygon Street for a shiny new Brunswick East location. You’re invited to experience it before the public, with a one-off menu, drinks and a Q&A.

 

Rumi has long been a Melbourne institution, having changed the way we think about and enjoy Lebanese food. And for the first time in 16 years, it’s moving.

 

The new venue has a totally new aesthetic, blending traditional Middle Eastern textures with terrazzo floors and patinated walls. But Rumi’s warm and comforting spirit, as well as menu mainstays like smoky charcoal-grilled chicken wings and cheese cigars, have been retained.

 

You’ll be one of the first to experience the new Rumi when it opens exclusively to Access members for a sit-down Editors’ Preview dinner – the day before its official opening. The one-off menu, curated just for members, is yet to be revealed, but expect classic Rumi hits such as Persian meatballs, advieh-marinated lamb shoulder, and fried cauliflower with caramelised onions, currants and pine nuts. You can also add an optional beverage package to your ticket.

 

Between courses, you’ll hear from Abboud in conversation with Broadsheet’s national editor Michael Harry about the decision to move the venue and exciting new projects for Rumi. 

 

There will be signed copies of Abboud's new cookbook Rumi available to purchase on the night, which includes some of the restaurant's best recipes and ideas for home cooks to personalise and adapt the to the seasons.