Middle Eastern Magic Meets Mediterranean Chill: Why Paddington’s Newest Hotspot, CANESS, Is Worth Booking a Babysitter For

If the words “tapas night” and “open kitchen vibes” make your soul do a little shimmy—get ready to fall in love with CANESS, Paddington’s newest flavour-forward gem opening April 15.

This isn’t your typical share-plate joint. Think bold Middle Eastern flavours, reimagined with the breezy ease of Mediterranean tapas culture. It’s a place where the dishes are simple, the cocktails are clever, and the hospitality feels like a warm hug (but with better lighting and a great soundtrack).

Welcome to CANESS—Where Mezze Meets Minimalism

Set on Oxford Street with a 60-seat fit-out that’s both laid-back and elevated, CANESS is the lovechild of hospitality duo Erez Nahum and Juan Colmenares. The vision? A relaxed yet refined space where “come as you are” isn’t just welcome—it’s encouraged. (Yes, you can wear your linen pants and still feel fancy.)

“We wanted to bring together the vibrant energy of Middle Eastern dining and the communal spirit of tapas,” explains Nahum. And honestly? Mission accomplished.

The Menu: Clean Plates, Bold Flavours

The menu, created by renowned chef Ido Zarmi, is a masterclass in simplicity done right. Designed for sharing (read: perfect for grazing without overthinking), each dish pops with flavour, colour, and character.

Here are just a few head-turners:

• Prawns Saganaki – juicy, saucy, and swimming in tomato and feta goodness
• Grilled Octopus – charred to perfection and paired with a zingy herb and caper salsa
• Falafel and tahini, eggplant with labneh, and other staples of Middle Eastern soul food, presented in a way that feels both fresh and comfortingly familiar

“There’s no smoke and mirrors here,” says Zarmi. “It’s all about stripping back and letting great ingredients shine.”

Cocktails That Could Star in Their Own Series

Let’s talk drinks. The cocktail menu is a love letter to the Mediterranean, featuring 10 signature creations with Spanish and Italian flair. Must-tries include:

• The Clear Gazpacho – yes, you read that right. It’s as refreshing as it is surprising
• The Figroni – a fig-infused twist on the classic Negroni, nodding to Middle Eastern roots

The wine list is just as thoughtful, with 80+ bottles and over 20 by the glass or carafe. Translation: no commitment issues here—sip, sample, repeat.

The Space: Casual Cool With Heart

With its open kitchen, clean lines, and unfussy design details, CANESS strikes the perfect balance between sleek and soul-filled. It’s intimate without being stuffy, cool without trying too hard, and built for connection—whether you’re deep in date night convos or catching up with your ride-or-die group chat IRL.

“We wanted it to feel like a home,” says Colmenares. “Come in, relax, eat great food, stay as long as you like—shorts and thongs included.”

Why It’s Worth Leaving the Kids (and the Couch)

Let’s be real—parents don’t get many nights off. So when you do make time for dinner out, it better be somewhere that delivers. CANESS is that place. It’s not fussy or overly formal, but it is delicious, stylish, and just the kind of grown-up night out your week is crying out for.

So whether you’re overdue for a proper date night, want to feel like your pre-kid self for a couple of hours, or simply love discovering new flavours, CANESS deserves a spot on your radar.

Need-to-Know Details
348 Oxford St, Paddington
Opens April 15
Tues–Thurs: 3pm–Late | Fri: 12pm–Late | Sat–Sun: 11am–Late
Book now: caness.com.au
Instagram: @caness_sydney
Must-try: The Figroni & Grilled Octopus