Along Manuka’s bustling Franklin street you’ll find Saffron, a restaurant where Eastern Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine are coupled together on an exotic menu.
Newly renovated with an updated menu, Saffron has been pleasing customers for the past five years and brother/owner duo, Max and Marvin Azize, plan to continue doing so for many years to come.
“We try to provide the best dining experience for our customers by including the little things that matter. White tablecloths and a double knife and fork setting says a lot about who we are and what we do,” Marvin said.
Marvin’s brother Max (Head Chef) has been in the business for over 30 years, and brings his unique culinary approach to the family owned restaurant – along with his second-in-charge in the kitchen, Chef Alex Finlayson.
“We try and make things uncomplicated, not only for us, but for the customer as well. Simple, elegant and cosy would be the words I would use to describe the atmosphere of Saffron,” Marvin said.
“The people that come to our restaurant come to enjoy a nice meal and a good bottle of local wine, without having to rush. This is something that is really important to us; to give that personal customer experience. My brother and I always wanted to own a restaurant, and we are very lucky to still be able to do what we love.”
Modern refurbishments of the restaurant aside, the menu has also been updated with a new traditional ‘mezze’ banquet option added to the already extensive list of dishes.
With this addition, the pair hoped to bring cultural diversity and showcase the varied elements of Eastern Mediterranean cuisine, in one sitting.
With the menu encompassing Lebanese, Greek and Turkish cuisine, Saffron has set a high standard in food quality and presentation.
The team have worked hard to create a warm, inviting space and the attentive and knowledgeable service sets Saffron apart.
“In the end, we want people not to think of this place as just an excellent dining experience, but also a place that the customer can feel comfortable, like a home away from home.”
