Lutfiye’s Cafe celebrates 35 years
TANTALISING taste buds from the very first bite, Lutfiye’s Café has cultivated a loyal following and has long been beloved throughout the region for its delectable array of authentic Albanian, Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine.
Owned and operated by the charismatic and selfless Azem Elmaz, Lutfiye’s Café proudly celebrates 35 years of service this year. It’s no surprise that it remains a favourite lunchtime destination, thanks to its vibrant and abundant menu, which caters to all nutritional needs and preferences, including gluten free options.
A feast for both the eyes and the palate, Azem’s traditional Albanian Rice has been a firm favourite from the start. It is joined by a delicious variety of dishes such as Vegetarian Broccoli Bake, Creamy Yummy Chicken, Stir-Fry, and a mouth-watering selection of homemade sauces, including garlic, eggplant and chili. There truly is something to delight every palate.
Humble and direct, yet disarmingly passionate about his cooking, Azem begins his day at 5am, cutting and preparing ingredients for the lunchtime service. Recalling memories of his mother’s Albanian cooking, not only the salsas, sauces and pastries, but also stews and casseroles, Azem said:
“I’m passionate about cooking because I love it. I just love what I do,” Azem said, before adding, “If I was doing it just for the money, I wouldn’t love it. When I see customers come in and enjoy their meals, that, for me, to be honest, is priceless.”
Also renowned for its personal, warm and welcoming service, Lutfiye’s hospitality is as authentic as it is a labour of love. As Azem said:
“Hospitality—either you’re going to love it or hate it. It’s one or the other. If you enjoy it, like me, then you’ll enjoy every bit of it. When I’m in the kitchen, it’s like watching a newborn baby, it’s exactly the same. You’re constantly watching what you’re putting in, watching it grow and develop in flavour.”
Complemented in the kitchen by Colette and assisted by a third employee during the busy lunchtime service, Lutfiye’s Café also caters to community events, function and special family gathering and weddings In addition, and in accordance with Azem’s long-standing philanthropic work, Lutfiye’s also supports the community by providing meals to those in need daily after 3pm.
When asked about the impressive longevity and enduring success of his restaurant, Azem said:
“I’m proud of myself, to be honest—as a businessman and as a worker. I’m just proud of myself, and I’m happy. God bless Australia!”
