WaFire Grill has landed in Neutral Bay, finally offering locals a taste of the Middle East crafted by a chef who’s cooked in Dubai’s Burj Al Arab and beyond.
A Chef Shaped by Global Experience
Chef Wasim Shaikh began his culinary career at 18 in a flight kitchen in India, later honing his skills across Dubai, Egypt, China, the UK and Singapore. He worked at top hotels in Dubai, including the Burj Al Arab, before moving to Australia.
Here, he became known as the head chef at Kazbah, a popular Middle Eastern restaurant in Balmain and Darling Harbour. After Kazbah closed, Shaikh saw a chance to bring authentic Middle Eastern dining to Neutral Bay.
Bringing Middle Eastern Flavour to the North Shore
WaFire Grill’s menu draws from across the Middle East, with flavours from North Africa to the Persian Gulf. It features grilled meats like lamb kafta and chicken shish tawook, a nutty tabouleh salad, and a slow-cooked lamb shank tagine served with couscous or Persian rice.
Moroccan-style grilled prawns with green sauce and mango have also become a local favourite. One standout mezze is the Kataifi Haloumi, haloumi wrapped in pastry and topped with honey-pomegranate glaze.
Fresh Produce and Slow Feasts
Unlike many commercial kitchens, Shaikh avoids bulk suppliers and instead shops daily at local markets and butchers to ensure freshness. He often visits Auburn to source authentic Middle Eastern ingredients.
The restaurant’s dining concept encourages guests to take their time, meals are served gradually, encouraging conversation and connection over a slow “feast.” WaFire Grill also welcomes guests to bring their own wine, adding to the relaxed, community-driven experience.
Celebrating Culture Beyond the Menu
WaFire Grill aims to be more than just a restaurant, creating a space that celebrates Middle Eastern culture through food and events like live music and performances. The team brings a strong focus on hospitality and tradition, shaped by Chef Wasim Shaikh’s heritage.
Their goal is to make dining feel like gathering with family. With its cultural focus and community spirit, WaFire Grill is quickly becoming a favourite in Neutral Bay.
Published 3-June-2025
