Afghan Gallery: A Quiet Icon Since 1983

Afghan Gallery may have a modest street presence, but behind its discreet Brunswick Street façade lies one of Australia’s oldest Afghan restaurants, operating since 1983.

A Gallery Turned Sanctuary

Originally opened as an art gallery by Aziz Salehi in 1981, it was transformed into a restaurant two years later by his sister, Dr. Nouria Salehi. Her vision extended beyond food—she created a safe haven and a source of employment for newly arrived Afghan refugees fleeing the Soviet-Afghan war. That spirit of support continues today, with most of the team made up of recent Afghan migrants who share a strong sense of community and a genuine commitment to warm hospitality.

Comfort Food with Purpose

The menu leans vegetarian, with a focus on comforting curries and aromatic rice dishes. Highlights include bourani badenjan—pan-fried eggplant topped with garlic yoghurt—and mantoo, delicate pastry parcels filled with spiced meat. Mains feature signature dishes like kabuli palau, a fragrant rice dish with carrot, sultanas, and almonds, along with richly spiced dal and succulent kebabs. Notably, all profits go toward supporting communities in Afghanistan.

An Immersive Cultural Experience

Now managed by Dr. Salehi’s niece, Homaira Mershedi, Afghan Gallery retains traces of its artistic beginnings, with colourful glass light fixtures and decorative vases still adorning the ground floor. Upstairs, the atmospheric tent room offers an immersive dining experience for up to 100 guests, complete with hanging lanterns, draped fabric, floor cushions, and wall tapestries—perfect for group bookings and functions. A $45-per-person “feed me” menu is also available for those keen to sample the breadth of flavours on offer.

Tradition, with a Twist

Though the menu remains rooted in tradition, Afghan Gallery doesn’t follow Afghanistan’s alcohol-free custom—it’s fully licensed and BYO-friendly, making it an even more inviting spot for a memorable night out.