If you are planning a trip to Melbourne, then chances are you are hoping to experience everything that this vibrant city has to offer, from the local tourist attractions to the famous lanes and, of course, the excellent food.
And while Australia may be known internationally for its love of barbecues, the country’s diverse community of ethnicities and rich history of immigration has produced a fabulous food culture and a plethora of international cuisines.
So, if you are in the mood for Indian cuisine and to sample a really good curry, then Melbourne has you covered.
Melbourne offers some of the finest Indian restaurants in the country, with each sporting its own unique menu, heritage and chef’s specials. And, of course, India is a huge country with many regional dishes and a diverse food culture.
With so many options available, it can be difficult to choose which Indian restaurant to try. Well, don’t worry as Eatability is here to help.
Since it’s opening in 2013, Adam D’Sylva’s Tonka has shakened up conceptions around Indian cuisine. It’s impossible to write about the best Indian restaurants in Melbourne and not mention it.
If you have been looking for an Indian restaurant that offers a more high-end culinary experience, then look no further than Tonka.
Located down a funky laneway in the CBD, Tonka takes classic Indian dishes and infuses them with technique and vibrant flavours.
Sporting white napkins, classy decor and food unlike anything you have ever seen before, this restaurant is the very definition of sophistication and offers some of the best dishes in the city, from Kerala Prawn Curry with Toasted Coconut to Confit Duck with Sirkay Wali Gobi & Chestnut Puree. Even that most humble of street foods – the Pani Puri – is magical in the hands of the chefs. The fragile, hollow spheres are filled with Date & Tamarind Chutney and Aromatic Water for the ultimate flavour bomb. Delicious!
Location: 37 Little Bourke St, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Ph: (03) 9242 0814 And Now Also At 627 Chapel St, South Yarra, VIC 3141 Ph: (03) 9088 8095
Few chefs have captured the fun vibe of Modern Indian cuisine like Jessi Singh. Daughter In Law Melbourne has sister restaurants in Adelaide and briefly an outpost in Byron Bay – all of them specialise in serving ‘Unauthentic Australian Indian’ food.
What this means is plenty of recognisable Indian fare, given a little tweak of originality. So we’re talking mainstays like Tandoori Chicken alongside the utterly addictive Colonel Tso’s Cauliflower. Or maybe the familiar Palak Paneer followed by the signature Unauthentic Butter Chicken.
Pair the playful dishes with a funky ambience, colour-saturated decor and disco soundtrack and you’re a million miles from the standard Indian restaurant of yesteryear.
And did we mention the cocktails? I’m happy to report that the Spicy Margarita – Hari Mirch Infused Tequila, Triple Sec, Lime Chilli Salt – more than matches the wallop of some of the dishes.
If you like the sound of Daughter in Law, make sure you also check our Jessi Singh’s Horn Please – reviewed below. And if you’re wondering, he also previously helmed MR Brownie, Mrs.Singh and the Bombay Yacht Club. What’s more, he has a foothold in Sydney as well with Pinky Ji and Don’t Tell Aunty. With a track record this that, it’s clear that Jessi Singh knows what he’s doing.
Location: Grand Hotel Melbourne, 33 Spencer St, Docklands, VIC 3008 Ph: (03) 9620 1286
When it comes to sampling rare and exotic dishes, there’s no better Indian restaurant than Gaylord, which is now in its new home in the Grand Hotel.
Originally based in Chinatown, this establishment has been wowing tourists and locals alike for years. And whilst it may have changed locations, it continues to be a frontrunner in creative Indian cuisine.
Featuring a diverse team of culinary experts, this restaurant offers classic dishes such as Goat Curry and Methi Murg, as well as more inventive creations like Kerala Salmon Moilee and Lamb Cigars with Mint Sauce.
It’s off to fashionable Fitzroy for the next of our best Indian restaurants in Melbourne.
Located on Gertrude, ISH is a rustic Indian restaurant that sits at the intersection of old and modern cuisine. Whilst the interior design – exposed brick and concrete floors – is very different from traditional Indian eateries, the eatery offers delicious and authentic dishes that capture the spirit of its homeland.
Sporting a fun and comfortable atmosphere, this restaurant delivers food with a surprisingly sophisticated twist, such as Tandoori Lamb Cutlets and Free-Range Chicken Tikka with Caramelised Onions and Garlic Yoghurt. Just make sure you leave some room for dessert. The House-Made Pistachio Kulfi is divine.
Honestly, we’re finding it hard to keep up with the openings, closures and moves of Chapati!
Previously housed at 401 Rathdowne St, Carlton, but now in the old Gingerboy premises, just over from Longrain, the stable also operated from a colourful Fairfield venue. However, that appears to be closed. For now, at least.
But wherever it’s cooking, Chapati is worth checking out. Why? Because it is a modern Indian restaurant that has been receiving rave reviews for its unique approach to traditional cuisine.
Taking its name from the classic bread that remains a staple of many Indian people, the establishment draws its inspiration from across the entirety of the vibrant country.
Boasting happy staff, stunning decor and a head chef with years of culinary experience, Chapati offers some of the best Indian food in the city, as well as a welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu.
So if you want to sample Garlic Naan, Coconut Fried Fish or authentic Butter Chicken, then this is the place for you.
Location: 365 Brunswick St, Fitzroy, VIC 3065 Ph: (03) 9917 2224 See Website For Further Locations
Mukka is not your stereotypical Indian restaurant. This eatery prides itself on creating unique and authentic dishes using traditional spices and fresh ingredients.
While the restaurant works to represent Indian cuisine at its finest, the food has not been dumbed down for Western palettes. The result is delicious, spicy dishes that will make your toes curl and your taste buds sing.
Although Mukka offers a wide menu of tasty meals, one of their standout creations is the Spicy Lamb Chops, which are marinated overnight to infuse the meat with its signature flavour.
Location: 159/161 Victoria Ave, Albert Park, VIC 3206 Ph: (03) 9696 3388
Modern Indian cuisine doesn’t get much better than at Albert Park’s Atta Restaurant.
Here, the kitchen takes dishes from across India’s varied regions and adds just the right amount of polish to make them sparkle.
If you’ve not heard of their Dirty Samosa, then you’re not up on the Melbourne Indian dining scene. It’s a fun take on the classic entree, deconstructed and served with a dramatic splash of Yoghurt. The Result? Edible art in the truest sense of the word.
However, if you want your food a bit more old skool, then both the Lamb Chennai and the Palak Paneer sing on the palate. The former, featuring meltingly tender Meat in a satin-smooth Coconut and Tomato Gravy. The latter, buzzing with the gentle hum of Green Chilli.
And the Naan? It’s simply one of the best we’ve ever eaten.
Considered one of the best Indian restaurants in Melbourne, Curry Vault offers a delightful culinary experience that has remained consistently amazing over the years.
Featuring a menu of classic Indian dishes that are made with love and care, this particular establishment boasts some of the hottest curries in the country. Fiery favourites include Beef Vindaloo, Chicken Madras and belting Lamb Madras.
One of the best things about this restaurant is that they don’t dumb down the food for Western taste buds. So you have been warned! Be prepared for a spice experience unlike any other. And order a Mango Lassi when it all gets too much.
Not to be confused with Babu Ji below, this Belgrave staple is a real local gem. And it’s currently the holder of 2 coveted Chef’s Hats.
As the name implies, Keralan food is the star at this truly friendly establishment. To sample the finest of what this thrilling culinary region has to offer, we recommend the ‘Home Style’ Thali. With 5 diverse Curries, Rice, Pickle, Poppodam and more, it’s a feast for both the taste buds and all your other senses.
Alternatively – and if you really bring a hunger with you – go the Banana Leaf Sadya. This meal is a true foodie journey, covering 13 Curries – each as unique and delicious as the last. If you crave Southern Indian cuisine, you have to put Babaji’s on your list.
Throw in numerous community-based events and a one of the most inclusive vibes around and you have a recipe for happy eating.
Not only is Babu Ji adored by locals and tourists alike, but it is also (apparently) the number one restaurant recommended by Melbourne’s Indian community. And there’s no higher accolade than that.
Known for its modern decor and chic aesthetic, this restaurant offers authentic Indian cuisine that has been made using top-quality ingredients. All complimented by superb presentation.
The authenticity of this restaurant comes from its wide menu of traditional street food, which includes tasty Samosas, Tandoori Chicken and Papdi Chaat. And whatever you do, don’t pass up the chance to try the Veg Momo. These Indian Vegetarian Dumplings come with a banging Onion Tomato Relish and Spiced Mango Chutney and they are superb.
However, if you fancy something a little more substantial, then you can also order pots of Butter Chicken, Fish Curry and Goat Stew. Yum!
Step inside contemporary Indian restaurant Elchi and marvel at the decor. With a stunning feature ceiling and diner-style booths, the burnished bronze, cream and sapphire space feels fabulously opulent.
Fortunately, the food is also pretty memorable. But then you’d expect that when ‘Curry Queen’ Manpreet Sekhon is at the helm.
The menu at Elchi takes a number of classic street food and well-known restaurant dishes and gives them a modern tweak. From the pleasingly fiery Gunpowder Gobhi, Crispy Cauliflower & Spicy Lentil Dust, to the knock-out Not Your Average Chicken Tikka, the flavours are bold and refined.
The set menu – Leave It Up To The Curry Queen – is good value at $75pp. However, it doesn’t give you a taste of the stunning Crispy Whole Amritsari Fish, Tamarind, Roasted Rice & Lime. Of course, that always gives you an excuse to return another time.
Unleash your inner Curry Queen – or King – and start making wafer thin dosa with this Lodge 10.5 Inch Round Cast Iron Griddle. It’s excellent for cooking a range of foods, including tortillas, roast veggies and even grilled sandwiches.
Incidentally, the Indian spiced Cocktails are also worth sampling, if you are so inclined.
Elchi is an exciting new addition to our list of best Indian restaurants in Melbourne.
Location: Queen Victoria Market, 513 Elizabeth St, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Ph: (03) 9328 7951
Not only is the name long, but the reviews are ecstatic for this lively, unpretentious dining spot and stellar customer service.
Personally, we’d be happy with a tableful of their Street Food. At this establishment, the Onion Bhaji are always crispy and never clogged with Oil, the Samosa are light and aromatic, and the Brother’s Special Chilli Chicken is juicy and succulent. That said, the Prawn Karahi – sweet, tender Prawns cooked in Capsicum, Onions and a lush Masala Gravy are a bit of a favourite. And the MUTTON BIRYANI, made with flavoursome Goat Meat is one of the most authentic we’ve tasted this side of Punjab.
But if Seafood and Meat aren’t your thing, don’t fret. The kitchen not only does a huge range of Vegetarian Dishes, but also a completely Vegan Menu. And every dish is a hit.
Location: 167 St Georges Rd, Fitzroy North, VIC 3068 Ph: (03) 9497 8101
Bright and effervescent, enter this spot and surrender to great flavours and a dynamic vibe. Named after the hand-painted slogans seen on commercial vehicles throughout India, Horn Please is an Indian restaurant unlike any other.
Serving delicious and authentic food, this establishment is known for its diverse menu and spirited atmosphere. Loved by locals, the kitchen knocks out Indian street food and popular dishes such as Butter Chicken and Punjabi Buttermilk Curry.
Beyond this, Horn Please also boasts Indian-style Nachos and its own homemade Kulfi ice cream. And boy do we love a well-made Kulfi.
For more of this kind of innovative fare, see our Daughter in Law Melbourne and Mr Brownie reviews above. All three restaurants germinated as part of the Jessi Singh empire.
Located in the Archway precinct, Delhi Streets has a real energy, which that has made it a popular hangout spot for tourists, locals and members of the Indian community.
Featuring Bollywood posters and comfortable decor, this dining space offers a wide selection of tasty street food. Popular dishes include Pan Puri and Aloo Tikki Chaat. That said, this place does it for us as it is one of the few eateries in the city that does a good Dosa. Plus, their Thali is a real winner, if you have the appetite.
Using authentic ingredients, Delhi Streets takes classic street food and transforms it into a sophisticated culinary experience, demonstrating why it has become one of the best Indian restaurants in the city.
2024 closed with a bang for Indian food lovers with the early anticipated opening of Mischa Tropp’s Kolkata Cricket Club at the Crown Casino.
Taking its inspiration from Bengali cricket clubs, the venue knocks out a range of exciting pan-Indian dishes. All with a wee tweak from the imaginative Tropp.
For example, why nibble on a tried and tested Naan Bread when you can have a Duck Kulcha instead? Here, soft bread arrives stuffed with Saffron Braised Duck, along with Apricot Chutney. Divine! The chef’s take on Butter Chicken is already well-known, with the praise totally deserved. However, our go-to is the Chingri Malaikari – a stunning dish of Wood-Fired King Prawns, Turmeric & Coconut Curry.
And did we mention the Bar Snacks? We are delighted to report that the chefs offer a full array – including Beer-Battered Fish with Curry Sauce. Perfect with a cold Indian Beer.
Prefer to eat Plant-Based? Well, like many Indian places, Kolkata Cricket Club
It may be the new kid on the block, but we’re confident that the Kolkata Cricket Club is destined to be one of the best Indian restaurants in Melbourne.
Editor’s Update: Sadly, Toddy Shop has served it’s last Chicken Pepper Fry and has ceased operating.
We’re tacking Toddy Shop by Marthanden Hotel onto the bottom of the Kolkata Cricket Club as this small, but perfectly conceived little establishment is also a Mischa Tropp baby.
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In contrast to his new Southbank venture, Toddy Shop specialises in home-style Keralan food. Dishes range from the surprisingly complex, yet simple looking, Mutta Roast – Fried Eggs, Onion, Tomato & Coconut Curry – to punchy Fish Alleppey. The Latter, a filling plate of Barramundi, Coconut, Green Mango, Tomato, Kashmiri & Green Chilli.
Oh. And the team also mix a blinding Cocktail. We’re huge fans of the Chor Bazaa – a delightful blend of Papaya Infused Gin, Gentian Liqueur, Bianco Vermouth & Mango Aleo. Yum!
Based in Camberwell, Tandoori Den has been serving delicious Indian cuisine for over forty years. Despite (because of?) its longevity, it still remains one of the best establishments in the whole of Melbourne.
The reputation of this much-loved local institution means that the dining room is always buzzing with a constant stream of takeaway orders flying out the door. Just wander past on a Saturday night and see how busy it is. You don’t get people coming back this regularly unless you’re one of the finest Indian restaurants in Melbourne.
Featuring a menu packed with vegetarian and vegan options, this particular restaurant makes everything from scratch and even boasts a whole page dedicated to homemade Tandoor Bread. That said, we find it hard to go past their Plain Paratha.
Finally, Tandoori Den has a number of Set Menu options, if you find the a la carte a bit overwhelming. The Tandoori Den Signature Banquet is a stand-out. This generous menu allows you to sample many of the Indian restaurants most awarded dishes.
Punjabi Curry Cafe is a family-owned business that is known to offer some of the best North Indian food in the whole of Melbourne.
Authentic dishes are celebrated here and clearly the team are doing something right. This restaurant has been open for over fifteen year and continues to stand the test of time with its authenticity and ambience. Personally, we’re big fans of their Malai Kofta with it’s creamy, comforting Special Curry Sauce. Having said that, the Fish Tikka – cooked to flaking perfection in the Tandoor – is similarly a sure bet.
As unique dining experiences go, Enter Via Laundry is right up there with the best.
Having started as a Dinner Club at chef Helly Raichura’s home, it’s recently been reborn at a sleek, intimate 20-seat restaurant where personal service and sublime flavours reign supreme.
The menu features a 20-course degustation which leads you through the tastes and textures of a particular Indian region’s cuisine. When Eatability visited in July, we dined on exquisite West Bengali-themed dishes. From September the skilful team will be taking guests on a trip to Jannat-e-Firdaus Kashmir.
This is Indian fare given a fine dining twist. But that’s not all. Australian ingredients appear in numerous dishes, showing an understanding of flavour and texture combinations that surprise and delight. Dishes such as Posto, Wattle Seeds, Bora Mint (pictured above) use the coffee/chocolate notes of native wattle seeds to enhance the spices in the patties. It’s clever cookery.
The result is an evening of stunning food, knowledgeable, graceful service and an overall feeling of having been nurtured.
We’d happily return to Enter Via Laundry with every menu change to travel India, one plate at a time.
Another modern Indian establishment which is gaining a loyal following is this Carlton gem, whose name means ‘story’ in Hindi. And with a name as evocative as this, you get exactly what you might hope for – a rich tapestry of dishes which reflect both their provenance and history in spicing and cooking techniques.
As a result, you can roam the street stalls of Bombay via the Pav Bhaji which is made for sharing. Or perhaps nip into Lucknow for the Beetroot Galwati – vivd Kebab served with Poppy Seeds and a house-tempered Chutney. If you love Seafood, then you really should visit the shores of Kerala with the Prawn Mappas. Here, Australian Tiger Prawns shine thanks to Malabar Spices, Coconut Milk, and a bushel of Fresh Curry Leaves.
The kitchen at Kahaani is a stage for all the multi-faceted players of Indian fare to strut their stuff and totally worth checking out if you seek authentic food.
We’re closing with the humble, but traditional and very yummy Delhi Rocks in the CBD and Preston.
Although more like a basic canteen than a restaurant, this much-loved spot does a great selection of curries at very reasonable prices. From the Goat Saag to the Afghani Egg Curry, everything is carefully spiced and beautifully fresh.
Our tip is to order one of the Delhi Rocks Special Meals. Our go-to is the Any 3 Curries + Salad + Chai + Unlimited Roti, one of the most delicious Eat Cheaps you’ll find anywhere.
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!
