Merrylands isn’t the typical place you would chose to go out for dinner, and with the abundance of cafes and restaurants available in Parramatta only 5 minutes away it is easy to see why. However, if you venture out of your comfort zone, you will discover a place rich in culture, and probably some good food while you are at it too.

I decided to try out an Afghan restaurant called Mazar. This first dish is called ” Mahecha Palaw”.

Tender lamb shanks combined with a delicate palawi rice topped with carrots and sultanas.

The servings are massive! And bursting with flavour.

The mixed platter. Pretty much contains a little of everything. Definitely try the mantu dumplings.

Steamed lamb mince dumplings with a tomato, onion and garlic sauce topped with yoghurt and dried mint.

Bulani – Afghani bread pockets with fillings such as potato, chives, pumpkin and more. (Not sure what the and more part entails…)

Delicious bread served with your meal. Massive size.

Finish off with a little Afghan Tea.

Forgot to mention the Dough. It is a cucumber and mint yoghurt drink. The restaurant next door makes it a little thicker and ‘yoghurtty’, whereas this version is little less thick and saltier. I prefer this version as it tastes a little more refreshing.

The feast. (Banana peel not included)

Mazar is conveniently located just a short stroll from the station (for those non-drivers). Some areas can be a little quiet, so bring some friends along and enjoy a traditional Afghan feast.