Indian food is world-famous for its exciting and fiery flavors that are an absolute delight to the palate. Visiting a great Indian restaurant is a perfect way to get a sense of the culture of the vibrant country.
There are many Indian restaurants all across the world that help to make these flavours accessible for all.
The only problem is, with so many Indian restaurants available, how can you possibly choose just one? Which one has the best food? Which one is the best for its price?
If you are based in the Adelaide area of South Australia, and you want a satisfying Indian meal today, then why not check one of these 15 restaurants.
You’re sure to leave with a happily full belly, no matter which one you pick. Join us below as we explore these 15 establishments together.
Location: Close to, 31 Hindmarsh Square, Rundle Mall, Adelaide, SA 5000 Ph: (08) 823 7837
We’re opening our look at the best Indian restaurants in Adelaide with a firm favourite.
Established in 1980 as a small family restaurant, Jasmin quickly became a local staple of its area. Over the years it has delivered intense, exciting flavours to its thousands of customers. And the fact that so many are regulars can only be a good sign.
Warm and welcoming, whilst still managing to maintain a classy ambience, Jasmin provides a wonderful eating experience that you’ll remember for years to come.
Try the excellent blue cheese naan. Yes, we know if it’s unusual, but trust us. This highly original dish features flatbread stuffed with a blue cheese and onion filling. A side of chutney compliments that tang of the cheese perfectly.
This is a massively popular venue in the area, so you may need to call in advance to reserve a spot. That said there is a large amount of space inside, so walk-ins are often accepted.
Location: 401 Main Road, 8, Coromandel Valley, SA 5051
If your dinner plans are controlled by dietary needs, then Dhoom could be the answer to your prayers. This excellent Indian eatery caters to vegans, vegetarians and gluten intolerant people.
Dhoom also has a wide range of meat-based dishes, so even carnivores will be happy with a visit to this local wonder. Indeed, this is a great place to take a group of friends with differing tastes and dietary needs.
Dhoom also offers takeout and delivery options, so that you can get delicious Indian food from home.
Visiting this restaurant can also be a fancy treat, thanks to an extensive wine menu, and some tasteful interior design.
When you visit, make sure to try the Palak Paneer, made of cottage cheese cooked in a flavoursome green curry base, bursting with herbs.
Editor’s Note: What was once known as Dhoom has reopened as Tandoori Delight.
Location: 5/118 King William St, Adelaide, SA 5000 Ph: 0404 269 188
Friendliness is the name of the game at Little India Takeaway.
The staff in this small and unpretentious restaurant are kind, friendly, and always accommodating, no matter whether you are a frequent customer or a complete first-timer.
Ask for recommendations from the friendly staff, and they will gladly point you towards some of their most delicious dishes. If you’re unsure what to pick they can be a great source of inspiration.
Be sure to try the delicious Chicken Tikka and Vindaloo, which has an incredibly aromatic smell that you may be able to detect over a block away!
Editor’s Note: Sadly, we have heard that Little India Takeaway has closed. We will let you know when we learn more.As this is the case, why not try this recommendation instead…?
Masterchef Australia winner, Sashi Cheliah’s restaurant has all the flavour and flare that you’d expect if you saw him cook on the TV show.
Whilst more Asian fusion than a purely Indian restaurant, the spices and techniques of Sashi’s Indian heritage and multi-cultural Singaporean upbringing are present in colourful dish after dish. The Masala Fried Chicken, Avocado Cream, Kashmiri Chilli Mayo & Curry Leaf can give any Southern Fried chook a run for its money. Meanwhile, the punchy Kuruma Iraichai Pepper Lamb, Coconut Chutney, Rampe & Crispy Onion is a wonderful take on the Sri Lankan favourite.
Alongside the great food, GAJA By Sashi has a chilled vibe to go with the restaurant’s light and bright decor. What’s more, the folks behind the bar know how to make a great Cocktail to bring out the best in the food.
No wonder GAJA By Sashi is one of the top Indian restaurants in Adelaide.
Let us say straight up, the Eatability loves Southern Indian food – especially dosas.
So Sukh Sagar just had to make out list of the best Indian restaurants in Adelaide as the folks here are all about delivering delicious Southern Indian street food. And that includes gloriously lights dosa pancakes.
The restaurant is closed on Wednesdays but is open from 11 to 10 every other day throughout the week, so you can pick up some of this delicious grub no matter when the craving hits you.
Try the specialty Burani Baigan which has an incredible, diverse array of flavours, thanks to eggplant, chutney, and yoghurt.
Editor’s Note: Sadly, we have heard that Sukh Sagar has closed.As this is the case, we recommend this place instead…
With a hugely popular Daughter in Law already filled with happy diners in Melbourne (and a couple of other thriving ventures under his belt) the purveyor of ‘unauthentic Indian’ cuisine casts his net over to South Australia. The result is a bright, buzzing sibling for the Victorian original and a menu that is full of instant winners.
From the sweet and sour heat of the Indo-Chinese Colonel Tso’s Cauliflower ($24) to the rich and creamy (signature) Unauthentic Butter Chicken ($30), the flavours are balance and enticing.
Editor’s Note: The lighting was heavy on the pink tones when we ate, so…
Honestly, the food is great and the vibe is fun. We rate Daughter in Law as one of the finest (unauthentic!) Indian restaurants in Adelaide.
Location: 170 O’Connell St, North Adelaide, SA 5006 Ph: (08) 8267 3820
True to its name, Beyond India offers unique flavours and dishes that you won’t find anywhere else.
The modern and welcoming atmosphere of the restaurant perfectly complements the adventurous and experimental flavours that the restaurant specialises in.
Customers praise the restaurant for its friendly staff who are dedicated to providing welcoming, personal service.
If you enjoy cooking Indian food at home, you’ll know that you can save a lot of money by buying whole spices and roast and grinding them yourself. To do this, you need a good spice or coffee grinder. For suggestions and prices, see here.
As well as food, you can also order an array of drinks. Personally, we can never go past a good Salted Lassi – it’s the perfect accompaniment to spicy dishes.
If you arrive early, or when the restaurant is full, the staff will gladly provide you with drinks while you wait for your culinary adventure to begin.
The Chefs of Tandoori deserves all the praise that it regularly receives. And no wonder, as the owners of this gem draw on plenty of experience gained in 5 Star Hotels and Restaurants in India.
Customers love to this restaurant with its exciting range of delicious North Indian dishes.
The restaurant itself is light and airy, which provides an amazing space where the aromas of the kitchen will get your appetite going.
Amongst the many exciting items on the menu, some of the most popular are the Char-Grilled Barramundi, and the Lamb Chops Tandoori, both of which have deep, rich flavours.
They also have a selection of vegan and vegetarian options that are equally as delicious.
The celebrity chef Jock Zonfrillo has played a big role in getting Adelaide on the foodie destination map. Read more about his ventures here.
Unassuming, but full of character and passion, British Raj is a wonderful one-stop destination for amazing Indian flavours.
Located in the Torrensville, British Raj is easy to find and provides a comfortable setting to enjoy their yummy food.
You can order both in-store or online, so if you need a hit of Indian heat at home, look no further than British Raj.
Amongst their menu are specials such as Tandoori Chicken Tikka Masala, and Chicken Manchurian. Both of these show great knowledge of spicing and are well worth experiencing for yourself.
Customers at this famous eatery are often delighted by the quirky decor that the restaurant boasts. Look to the ceiling to see numerous bicycles hanging from above.
It’s no surprise how the place got its amazing name.
These comfortable surroundings aren’t all that Bombay Bicycle Club has going for it though. Luckily, they also have a range of great dishes to keep your hunger at bay.
Make sure to check out the ‘Fire in a Bowl’ Fish Curry for a truly mind-blowing heat experience. This beast is packed to the brim with chilies and other spices that will make you feel like you’ve been whisked away to India.
And if you want a change from Indian food, their Kipling’s Restaurant offers items like Roast Lamb with Mash and Cauliflower Steak with Fried Potatoes.
This place really does cover all bases as it’s got a great bar as well.
Location: 261 Henley Beach Rd, Brooklyn Park, SA 5032 Ph: (08) 7226 0383
Moving on with our best Indian restaurants in Adelaide, we have Indian Masala.
If you’re visiting this dining spot, be sure to try out the fragrant Butter Chicken. This ever-popular dish is like a hug in a bowl. Order some rice and naan on the side and settle in for a comforting meal.
The Raj on Taj offers incredible surroundings within which to enjoy the best of Indian food.
If you want some truly amazing food, then make sure to order the Rogan Josh. We recommend also trying the delicious, easy-to-share garlic naan – the whole table will thank you.
Modern, chic, and full of amazing dishes, Chennai Palace is arguably another of the best Indian restaurants in Adelaide.
One of the things that sets it apart from other eateries is its superb Indian Buffet Brunch. Another is that it’s another place that specialises in Southern Indian cuisine. And yes. That means lots of dosas to choose from.
Location: 450 Brighton Rd, Brighton, SA 5048 Ph: (08) 8377 2247 & 271 North East Road, Hampstead Gardens, SA 5086 Ph: (08) 8266 2247
Whether you’re a returning customer or a first-time customer, it would be impossible to not have a great experience at this local favorite Indian restaurant.
Extensive, and full of Indian delights, the menu at Charminar has something for everyone, regardless of age, or dietary needs. These meals are simply decadent and will have you deeply satisfied.
Want a succulent chicken dish? Try the butter chicken curry, which has a nutty sweet sauce. Want something exciting and rich? Try the Beef Cheeks.
But whatever you choose, you’ll find this is one of the top Indian restaurants in Adelaide.
Perhaps the best name on our list, The Snake Charmer features a wide range of dishes that are unique and full of character, just like its name!
This restaurant is open all throughout the week until 10 PM, so no matter when the cravings for their delicious food hit you, they’ll be ready to satisfy them in seconds.
Dishes range from large curries for one, to sharing dishes. This makes this a wonderful place to visit with family and friends.
Editor’s Note: Sadly, we have heard that The Snake Charmer has closed. We will let you know when we learn more.
This restaurant aims to make you feel like the star of a Bollywood movie. And thanks to some amazing flavours on the plate – and good cocktails in the glasses – they usually manage it.
You can even, on some nights enjoy your delicious curry or roti with complimentary entertainment, such as dancing. Touches like this really create a vibrant, happy atmosphere. And that always makes your food taste better.
Editor’s Note: Sadly, we have heard that Bollywood Indian Restaurant has closed. We will let you know when we learn more.
Location: Marina Pier, 5/12 Holdfast Promenade, Glenelg, SA 5045
Last on our run through of the best Indian restaurants in Adelaide we have a place that offer great Indian food with a view.
Indian cuisine has a lot of exciting fish dishes that not many people are aware of, but that they are seriously missing out on.
If you want in on some of these delightful seafood flavours infused with Indian spices and cooking methods, then you cannot go wrong at the Sea Lounge.
The interior of the restaurant is decorated throughout, with images of the famous Taj Mahal, which adds an authentic taste to all of the beautiful dishes they serve.
Try the Chilli Crab Cakes, and the Baby Barramundi, to see some of the exciting flavours that the sea has to offer.
Editor’s Note: Sadly, we’ve learnt that Sea Lounge has recently closed.
When it comes to great places to eat in Australia, the list really is endless. There are so many different restaurants, cafés, and chains to try that you really are spoiled for choice. From Italian food, to Japanese food, to a good ‘ole rump steak, the food options are endless.
This is why I decided to set up my blog, Eatability, to share the best food and drink spots in Australia with as many people as possible. Hi, my name is Dylan Cole, and I moved to Australia five years ago from England, UK.
Through this blog, I will be sharing and recommending some of my favorite places you need to visit, such as where to find the best pizza in Adelaide, and the best bakery in Brisbane. Whatever food you are fancying, I have got you covered!
