Shuk is the Hebrew word for market – a place to gather, to swap stories and to source everything from fresh fruits and vegies to bread, meats, fish and spices. It’s this lively, laid-back atmosphere and abundance of marketfresh produce that the owners of Shuk Bondi have successfully recreated at their iconic neighbourhood cafe, which first opened in 2013 (plans are currently underway for a local celebration to mark the anniversary).
“We wanted to create an eatery for the community,” says Buenos Aires-born German Sanchez, head chef and co-owner of Shuk, which also has outposts in Chatswood, Elizabeth Bay and Surry Hills. “Somewhere that people can be comfortable to come and visit several times a week – or even a couple of times a day – for their coffee, bread and social fix.”
The ever-evolving menu here is as eclectic and exciting as the marketplaces the venue is named for, with a melange of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean fare – from fan-favourites shakshuka and teff pancakes to gnocchi, niçoise salad and cilbir (Turkish eggs). This culinary combination was inspired by the Israeli roots of co-owners Ariel Hefer, Erez Beker and Yoni Kalfus.
“Our menu reflects the rich diversity of cuisine found in the vibrant melting pot that is Israel,” Kalfus explains. “This dynamic fusion stems from influences spanning 130 countries over the past half century.” . recently joined
