Sana means “state of wellbeing” in Spanish. It’s also the name of the new bright and zesty Mediterranean-inspired eatery serving yum bowls and rolls, now open in South Eveleigh. Sana has been brought to life by two formidable forces: Daniel Sorridimi, owner of excellent Sydney cafés Blackwood Bondi and Cronulla, and Sydney-based chef Joel Bennetts. Bennetts is the chef behind Fish Shop and Burger Park, both in Bondi, and the author of ‘Food by Joel Bennetts’. The two share a passion for healthy food that makes you feel good and, importantly, doesn’t skimp on flavour.
Now open in the former home of Coyoacán Social, Sana joins nearby neighbours Willy Wonka-esque coffee mecca The Grounds Coffee Factory and beer haven BrewDog. Expect a line-up of seven signature bowls, plates and rolls, with the option to make your own bowl. Mediterranean basmati rice, cauliflower rice, lettuce, or cabbage will make up the base, before you go to town on proteins including salmon, lamb mince, lamb shoulder, chicken and falafel, as well as house-made pickles, fresh vegetables and zingy sauces.
Highlights include The Sana, featuring lamb mince, pickled zucchini, cucumber, red onion, pickled jalapeño, coriander, garlic and jalapeño dressing and spiced almonds; and the red harissa protein plate, which combines poached chicken, house-made slaw, spiced almonds and pickles. We tried the poached chicken roll, which came with shredded iceberg lettuce, red onion, cheddar cheese, pink turnips, black pepper mayo and Calabrian chilli oil – and it was five-star. We're also fans of the bright and fresh evergreen bowl.
Sorridimi said: “After years in the making, I am beyond excited to launch Sana, and bring Australia a fast-casual dining option that is built on both taste and nutrition equally. Mediterranean cuisine is new to this category and having Joel drive the menu direction has been very exciting to watch.”
Bennetts added: “We have put so much consideration into designing a menu that is beautifully balanced and feels good to eat. We know that people are going to love the whole experience at Sana, from the customisable ordering, the fresh ingredients and the balanced flavours.”
Come make friends with salad at Sana.
Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox.