There's a lot to be said for urban living; top-tier food at every corner, coffee within walking distance at all times, and easy transport make for almost unmatched convenience. But what it often lacks is that warm, fuzzy sense of community.
Cue Mason & Main: the lifestyle precinct prioritising all the benefits of city living, but without the disconnection. In Western Sydney's Merrylands, this new hub includes resort-style apartments and amenities, plus all the convenience of your go-to local retail and services. It's also absolutely jam-packed with all the culture and connection that comes with a close-knit community through family-run, true-to-their-roots restaurants and dining spots. Read on for some of our top picks.
Knafeh Bakery Pop-Up
If you haven’t heard of the Bearded Bakers, they’re a team of creatives, bakers and performers—best known as the masterminds behind Knafeh Bakery. A travelling bakery run out of shipping containers, they sling out endless servings of the Middle Eastern dessert knafeh—a sweet, cheesy, pastry-filled treat—playing music and dancing as they cook.
In May, Knafeh Bakery is popping up at Mason & Main from 6pm until late over three weekends: 10 and 11 May, 16–18 May, and 23–25 May. The Bearded Bakers will be bringing their signature energy to the precinct’s Eat Street to celebrate its official grand opening.
Iftar Lebanese
Serving up authentic Middle Eastern fare, Iftar spotlights the incredible flavours of Lebanon. Owner Jeremy Agha co-created the restaurant’s dishes with his mother Rita, keeping recipes in line with her home-style cooking but adapting them for modern diners. Open for breakfast and lunch, the dining room also offers up coffees and a selection of mocktails.
Front and centre in Iftar’s breakfast offerings is the brekkie board, an incredible platter of fried eggs, labneh, mixed pickles, dried fruit, seasonal veggies, cheeses, cured cold meats, and zaa’tar manoush—arranged on one glorious board of breakfast dreams. Other menu standouts include the lamb shawarma tacos and wagyu dumplings.
Yuzu Japanese
Authentic flavours of Japan take centre stage at Yuzu, where you’ll find an extensive menu of ramen, sushi and sashimi, katsu curry, and tempura. It’s hard to go past the Yuzu signature rolls—filled with delights like tempura prawn and chicken katsu.
The space is dimly lit, with black and warm wooden finishes and an open kitchen, ideal for parking up and devouring endless plates of food.
Mase & Co
A family-owned and operated restaurant with a modern Mediterranean-inspired menu, Mase & Co offers a little bit of everything. The breakfast menu has all the Aussie brunch favourites like smashed avo and bacon and egg rolls, plus Mediterranean classics like shakshuka and labneh eggs. The same goes for lunch and dinner, with dishes spanning from sambousik (a traditional meat-filled pastry) to a hearty chicken schnitty.
Macelleria
Self-described as “the butcher that cooks for you,” Macelleria sources and serves only the best MSA-graded Aussie beef. Their Italian name translates to “butcher shop” in English—a fitting name for an eatery that focuses on high-quality, expertly prepared meat. The menu is made for meat-lovers, from burgers and cheesesteaks to the finest steaks and lamb cutlets.
Hayat Turkish
Sometimes you need a comforting feed in a low-key setting—something that hits the spot without the fuss. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Hayat, a family-owned, local dining spot plating up Turkish food from morning 'til late (9am ‘till 11pm) daily.
From traditional Turkish breakfasts to kebabs, gozleme, snack packs, and chargrilled meat plates, Hayat is comfort food done right.
San Churro
A classic for morning hot choccies and late night dessert runs, San Churro has your sweet treats covered. A low key spot to catch up with mates, head in for a decadent drink when your coffee just hasn't cut it, or stop for Spanish doughnuts after a delicious dinner at one of the precinct restaurants.
A whole stack of other dining and lifestyle gems are set to open at Mason & Main very soon, including Butterfield cookies and Oakberry.
To check out all the other exciting dining and retail openings on offer at Mason & Main, head here.
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Mason & Main and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.
Images: Mason & Main, Iftar on Instagram, Mase & Co on Instagram, Hayat on Instagram.