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: 465 Torrens Rd, Woodville Park, SA 5011 Ph: (08) 8333 7233
To the unaware, this might seem like a strange name for an eatery. However, an Idli is a type of Savoury, Steamed Rice or Lentil Cake, and is a staple of Southern Indian cuisine.
With this in mind, it’s not surprising that Murugan Idli creates amazing, authentic Southern Indian fare. Think the cripsy delight of Dosa and Dosai, Uthappam and – of course- a huge array of Idli. For us, the star is the Sambar Idli (2pcs $12.90), where the fluffy Rice Cakes come drenched in a Hot Sambar.
Midli is a fully Vegetarian establishment and an enormous number of their dishes are totally plant-based.
Incidentally, the Murugan Idli Shop currently has 26 branches across the globe, with the Adelaide one being the first in Australia. But with food this tasty, we sure there’ll soon be more outlets opening.
The Menu is filled with dishes that we love to eat. Open with the Vada Pav (Bombay Style). Here, a Bread Roll comes stuffed with moreish Spicy Potato Balls and a serve of Chutneys. For Main, it’s hard to ignore the pull of the Malai Kofta, filled with Dried Fruits and drenched in a lush Gravy.
However, as much as we could eat our way through virtually everything at Chatkazz very happily, there is one thing they offer that is generally hard to find. Dosa. And this Indian eatery have 25 on offer. It truly is Dosa heaven! And we’re here for it.
When you hold the title of the Best Indian Restaurant at the South Australian 2023 Restaurant and Catering Hostplus Awards for Excellence, you must be doing something right. And that’s just one of the many accolades that Laxmi’s has under its belt.
As the name implies, the Tandoori dishes are king here, though all the other options that pretty good too. If you’ve never tried their Fish Tikka ($22.50), then you really are missing out. Having said that, we’re also huge fans of the Bhoona Ghost ($19.90), where the smoky notes of the sweet Lamb marry perfectly with their coating of spices. Yum!
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. What’s more, the service is swift and smiley. Perfect.
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 See Website for Further Locations
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.
Whilst Chakna Tandoori Bites is a relatively new kid on the spicy Indian block, it certainly isn’t a shrinking violet.
Light and bright with a colourful feature bar and pink-tinged lighting, the atmosphere here is modern and lively. And that includes the livid Cocktails – of which there are many!
Thankfully, Chakna isn’t all flash and no heart. The food at this eatery carries some great, authentic Indian dishes, along with some westernised plates for kids and those who fear heat.
With the word ‘tandoori’ in its name, you might expect that the do some memorable ‘Clay Oven’ options – and you’re absolutely right. The Tandoori Lamb Chop ($36) is aromatic, tender and has an addictive char. Meanwhile, the Hariyali Paneer Tikka ($24) proves that vegetarian fare can be just as stunning as meat-based dishes.
But this is only the tip of the culinary iceberg. At Chakna, the list of appealing plates goes on and on.
Why don’t you book a table there soon and find out for yourself?
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.
As soon as we see the magical word ‘Puri’, we are straight in. The Dahi Puri ($13.90) at Sector 17 are textbook-perfect crispy shell, stuffed with Potato, Chutneys & more and accompanied by a wonderfully tart Yoghurt. That said, another stellar choice is the Punjabi favourite – Dal Makhni ($17.99). This Lentil dish is so creamy and satisfying that I defy even the most ardent carnivore to not like it.
Editor’s Update: Although you can still get a Slow Cooked Goat Curry and Naan at this address, there have been some major changes since we first published this article.
These days, the Bombay Bicycle Club is the Ovingham Hotel and the food includes Aussie pub classics, along side their spicier dishes.
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.
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.
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!
