Restaurant

AliQapu

840 High St, Kew East VIC 3102, Australia

Recommended by 29 people

Updated

Find AliQapu

840 High St, Kew East VIC 3102, Australia

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HoursMonday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 5:30 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 5:30 – 9:00 PM Friday: 5:30 – 9:00 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 5:30 – 9:00 PM

*Opening hours may differ during holidays.

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About AliQapu

Step past the towering wooden doors on High Street into an ornate room dressed with Persian rugs and antique samovars. Charcoal smoke drifts from the kitchen as platters of juicy koobideh, skewered soltani, and saffron rice hit the tables. Longtime regulars lean into generous banquets paired with a self-serve salad bar, while the private function room comes alive with live piano tunes. Dinner wraps up quietly over fragrant tea and spiced cake.

  • Traditional Koobideh & Soltani: Charred, skewered lamb and beef kebabs plated alongside mounds of fragrant saffron rice.
  • Classic Iranian Decor: Intricate antique samovars, ornate copperware, and patterned carpets behind giant timber front doors.
  • Function Room with Live Music: A dedicated private space suited for family milestones with live acoustic piano playing.

What's On at AliQapu

Upcoming events, special menus and other reasons to plan a visit.

No events or specials listed right now.

Why Choose AliQapu

Why diners choose AliQapu for authentic feasts, immersive Persian culture, and landmark celebrations in Kew East.

  • Masterfully Prepared Persian Grilled Meats

    Diners consistently praise traditional charcoal-grilled specialties like koobideh, soltani, and tender cutlets paired with aromatic saffron rice.

    The koobideh was absolutely delicious and packed with flavour.

    Roshan Shake
  • Generous Banquets with Salad Bar Buffet

    AliQapu sets its banquet menus apart with rich shared spreads accompanied by a self-serve salad bar style buffet.

    There is a Self service salad bar style buffet which is actually pretty good and comes with dinner

    Ninjazu Zu
  • Immersive Traditional Iranian Ambiance

    From the imposing front entrance to antique samovars, teapots, and Persian rugs, the interior delivers an evocative cultural transport.

    Walking into Ali Qapu felt like stepping into a little piece of Iran in Melbourne.

    Marjan H
  • Atmospheric Portal to Ancient Persia

    A grand wooden entrance opens into a transportive dining room filled with authentic craftsmanship and Persian music.

    As you step through the giant wooden doors in the front, you are transported to an atmosphere reminiscence of ancient Persia.

    Normandy C Jr
  • Private Event Spaces with Live Piano

    Equipped with a dedicated function room and live piano performances, the venue turns birthdays and milestones into memorable community gatherings.

    There is live music, and the pianist is a lovely gentleman to have a chat with. Highly recommend this place for its authentic Persian flavours

    niki_ yuv
  • Effortless Hosting for Diverse Groups

    Hosts feel complete confidence introducing newcomers, friends, and family to authentic Persian cuisine and culture.

    It is the only Persian restaurant that I can invite my non Iranian friends with confidence.

    Sophie Mir

Beyond the menu

Memorable, above-and-beyond hospitality touches that elevate dining at AliQapu

  • Live Piano Celebrations & Birthday Touches

    Birthday guests are celebrated with live piano renditions of the birthday song alongside specialty Persian cake, tea, and gift vouchers.

  • Complimentary Salad Bar Buffet with Banquets

    Dinner banquets include an accessible self-service salad bar style buffet alongside dips, saffron rice, and grilled kebab platters.

  • Warm Family Hospitality & Welcome Treats

    Hosts Amir and Ali greet diners personally, offering complimentary hot Persian tea and traditional small cakes when guests linger.

  • Dedicated Private Booths & Seating Areas

    The dining floor offers partitioned, private seating areas and dedicated booths suited for intimate conversations or family groups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make a reservation in advance?

Yes, bookings are accepted, and reserving ahead ensures you can walk in without waiting time, even during busy Friday or weekend dinner services.

What dishes are recommended to order?

Guests frequently order traditional Persian meat skewers such as koobideh (minced lamb/beef kebab), soltani, and tender lamb cutlets, alongside saffron rice, warm bread, and dips. The banquet option is especially popular for groups.

Is AliQapu suitable for private events and group celebrations?

Yes, the restaurant accommodates private celebrations and group dining with options like private seating areas, a dedicated function room, and group banquets. Live piano music also accompanies weekend and birthday gatherings.

Does dining include access to a salad buffet?

Dinner main courses include access to a self-service salad bar style buffet alongside your table orders.

Is parking available nearby?

Yes, free street parking is available near the restaurant on High Street in Kew East.

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