Western Australia’s only dedicated restaurant showcasing Levantine cuisine has had a huge first year, with more tantalising treats planned.
Meaning ‘Ray of Light’ in Arabic, INARA has illuminated Busselton’s food scene since opening a year ago, in November 2023, creating an exciting and generous flavour journey through the Middle East.
Owners Daniel and Joanna Johnson are no strangers to the south west, having previously successfully operated Casina in Dunsborough after returning to Western Australia from heading up teams in luxury international resorts in the Middle East, Asia, the South Pacific and Australia’s east coast.
Dan said INARA was the culmination of a long-time dream to dish up the delicious food of Eastern Mediterranean shores.
“I discovered a love for Levantine flavours about 20 years ago when I came across a stash of cookbooks by the pioneer of modern Middle Eastern cuisine in Australia, Greg Malouf, who sadly passed away recently,” Dan said.
“My obsession began, and I started experimenting with wonderful ingredients and flavours, combining spices, herbs, nuts, yogurts, cheeses, garlic, pulses, fruit, fish, meat and of course bread.
“The dream is now a reality and here we now are a year into serving the layered flavours of the Middle East to the South West!
“It’s wonderful being able to source quality local meats and produce to pair with flavours from afar to deliver something special to locals and visitors to the region.”
Events, chef’s lunch and banquets and take away
INARA is already a firm fixture in the Busselton community, hosting events for CinefestOz and the upcoming Pair’d Festival (only a handful of tickets remain to one of two Bubbles and Brunch sessions); and dining special offers including Tuesday night regional menus; set-price chef’s lunch ($65) and banquet ($89) options. INARA’s winter Sunday roast was a popular take on the traditional meat & three veg, and takeaway has taken off, but don’t expect kebabs and burgers!
November birthday offer
For the month of November, INARA will provide 10% off all gift card purchases and each diner over 18 will be offered a complimentary glass of prosecco.
Christmas lunch
INARA is open for Christmas lunch and dinner with a special set menu ($190 + public holiday surcharge), and their Spring menu is in full swing.
Dan and Jo have sponsored and hosted three chefs originally from the Philippines, recently promoting Paulo Punzalan to Head Chef. Paulo has extensive experience in high end kitchens in the United Arab Emirates. Their team continues to grow.
Reviews by guests have been overwhelmingly positive in INARA’s first year of opening in the new Busselton Pavilion, rating 4.7 on google reviews, 5 on Facebook and 4.5 on Open Table. Regularly repeated words include: “exceeded expectations”, “thoughtful”, “taste sensation”, “amazing”, “delicious”, “complex flavours”, and “exceptional”.
INARA is open six days (closed Wednesdays) from 11.30am to 10pm for Lunch and Dinner.
Find INARA at Busselton Central - Shop 43, 30 Kent Street Busselton, WA 6280. Visit inarabusselton.com.au and find them on Facebook and Instagram.