Fans of the Algerian chef Pierre Khodja will be thrilled to know he’s moved to town from The Flinders Hotel on the Mornington Peninsula, bringing his Turkish delight soufflé with him. It’s just one of many highlights at Camus. Diners are welcomed warmly by gracious black-clad staff and the chef beaming from his open kitchen. Khodja has good reason to smile. At this, his first solo venture, the flavours of the Maghreb go full throttle. Settle in with The Outsider (Four Pillars gin, elderflower and pink peppercorn) or something from the alluring wine list, then graze on seared scallops with fried chillies and Jerusalem artichoke purée or the prawn-stuffed calamari and mushroom börek. Main courses easily satisfy two, whether it’s paella bursting with seafood, chicken and lamb merguez, or chunks of melting goat with glistening apricots. End with rosewater-rich soufflé and exquisite halva ice-cream – a Turkish delight within this Melbourne slice of Algeria.
This review was made independently for the Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Guide. The guide’s reviewers visit unannounced and pay their way.
Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Guide
Wine: ★
Gourmet Traveller’s star-ratings, which range from zero to three stars, reflect reviewers’ first-hand experiences. The best-rated restaurants form our national Top 100. Our wine ratings, from zero to three stars, are made by wine editor Max Allen on the strength of the quality of the restaurant’s wine list. View our rating key here.
