After Service: Jad Nehmetallah, Misc., Parramatta

“I love seeing people happy. When I see people eating at the establishment that I created, from the menu I worked tirelessly to perfect, it’s incredibly rewarding. Whether they’re celebrating or just having a casual get-together, seeing them happy makes me happy. It almost feels like I’m an artist seeing people appreciate my work in an art gallery,” he said.

At Misc. Jad will be able to observe the effect of his work. The 300-seat restaurant, currently open for breakfast and lunch, has a strong Mediterranean bent and an emphasis on sharing. His love of hospo, a love he says is in his blood and an important part of his Middle Eastern heritage, is very much on display.

We recently sat down with Jad to find out where to go in Sydney for everything from the perfect date night to the best takeaway. And just as you see him on Gogglebox, telling couch buddies Matty and Sarah-Marie what he thinks, he wasn’t afraid to share his opinions.

Make sure you check out the bonus video interview with Jad below to find out what his last meal on earth would be and what his favourite food memories are.

Where should I go for a good coffee?
“Misc!”

What about on a date night?
“It really depends on the vibe you’re going for. If you’re serious about the person you’re dating, and you’re ready to seal the deal, I’d recommend Restaurant Hubert. For more of a casual date night, Baba’s Place always hits the spot.”

If you could go to a restaurant anywhere in the world right now, where would you go and why?
“Eleven Madison Park. It’s a New American fine dining restaurant in Manhattan, New York City with three Michelin stars. It was ranked first among The World’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2017, so just to say that I’ve been there is incredible. The building is beautiful, the food is delicious, and the business behind it is really inspiring.”

The best takeaway is at…
“Al Yasmin, Punchbowl for authentic Lebanese at an affordable price point.”

Favourite cafe for brunch or breakfast?
“Misc.! We’re not a cafe, but it’s definitely my favourite breakfast or brunch spot.”

After a long week, what’s your favourite place to unwind after work?
“City Cave for a sauna and a float.”

Where would you go with friends for dinner?
“I’d take my friends to Nour for contemporary Middle Eastern cuisine. The food, drinks, and overall atmosphere is great for having a friendly get-together.”

My favourite bakery is…
“A.P Bakery.”

You’ll find me shopping for food at…
“Harris Farm, the local fish markets and the local butcher.”

We at Dish Cult love you on Gogglebox, because you’re all about the food and we share your love of food TV. What is your favourite food TV show of all time?”
That’s a tough one, but I think Kitchen Nightmares is my favourite food TV show. I like seeing behind the scenes of how poorly the establishment is operating and how Gordon is able to (sometimes) fix all the problems. I find it really interesting.”

Jad Nehmetallah’s After Service address book:

Misc.: “Little Coogee” Bynes Ave, Parramatta Park NSW 2150

Restaurant Hubert: 15 Bligh St, Sydney NSW 2000

Baba’s Place: 20 Sloane St, Marrickville NSW 2204

Eleven Madison Park: 11 Madison Ave, New York 10010 USA

Al Yasmin: 224 The Boulevarde, Punchbowl NSW 2196

City Cave Broadway: 1-5 Wentworth Street, Glebe NSW 2037 (and various other NSW locations)

Nour: 3/490 Crown St, Surry Hills NSW 2010

A.P Bakery: 80 Commonwealth St, Surry Hills NSW 2010

Harris Farm: LG06/1 Bay St, Ultimo NSW 2007 (with locations all over Sydney and NSW)

Find out more about Misc. restaurant as well as which dish we on the menu is an absolute must-try (we’ll give you a clue: it involves incredibly fluffy hotcakes!)