Shop stories: Explore Talk of the Town in Elsternwick Village

For Ady Maklada, food has always been about more than what’s on the plate. It’s about family, tradition, and bringing people together. That’s the philosophy behind Talk Of The Town, a much-loved Middle Eastern restaurant in the heart of Elsternwick Village.

Tucked amidst a collection of small restaurants on Glen Huntly Road, opposite the Coles supermarket, Talk Of The Town serves authentic Middle Eastern cuisine made with fresh ingredients, traditional recipes, and plenty of care. From dine-in meals and takeaway favourites to catering for celebrations and corporate events, the restaurant has become a local destination for generous flavours and warm hospitality.

Ady’s hospitality journey began in 1991, running a bakery specialising in pita and traditional breads. Over the years, he has managed restaurants, refined his cooking style and shared his passion for Middle Eastern food with countless customers.

“My love of food began when I was a child, learning from my mother and grandmother in the kitchen,” he says. “Food was always about family, hospitality, culture, and bringing people together.”

Together with his wife, Hayat, Ady created Talk Of The Town to share those traditions with the local community.

The menu showcases a wide range of Middle Eastern favourites, including falafel, vine leaves, homemade dips, grilled meats, kebab wraps, salads, and traditional sweets. Customer favourites include the mixed grill platters, chicken tawook, kofta plates, hummus, babaganoush, and freshly made falafel.

One hidden gem worth discovering is the restaurant’s mejadara, a flavour-packed dish made with brown basmati rice, lentils, and cumin, which has developed a cult following among regulars.

Elsternwick Village felt like the perfect home for the business thanks to its strong sense of community and support for independent traders.

“I like being part of a shopping strip where people know their local businesses,” says Ady. “One of the nicest parts of the business is becoming part of people’s routines and celebrations.”

That community connection extends beyond the restaurant, with many customers returning regularly and introducing family and friends to the food they love.

Alongside its dine-in and takeaway offerings, Talk Of The Town also provides catering platters for family gatherings, corporate lunches and special occasions, making it easy to share authentic Middle Eastern flavours with larger groups.

Ady’s goal is simple: continue serving traditional food with warmth, care and consistency while welcoming even more locals through the door.

Next time you’re in the area, stop by to say hello for a quick falafel wrap, share a mixed grill platter with friends or organise catering for your next party. Talk Of The Town offers a genuine taste of Middle Eastern hospitality right here in Elsternwick Village that you won’t regret.

📍Visit Talk of the Town at 446 Glen Huntly Road, Elsternwick.