Indian cuisine has long held a powerful presence in the Australian dining scene—but not all curries are created equal. From the comforting aroma of slow-roasted goat curries to the rich indulgence of Mughlai-inspired masterpieces, these Indian restaurants elevate the experience beyond the average butter chicken. Whether you're in a coastal town or the heart of a bustling city, we've found five spots that fuse heritage, flavour and atmosphere into something unforgettable. Here’s where to go when only the best will do.
Jai Ho Indian – Hoppers Crossing, Vic
Victory shall indeed be yours at Jai Ho Indian in Hoppers Crossing, where old-world charm meets contemporary Indian cuisine in a dining room rich with dark timber, embossed wallpaper and softly lit pendent lights. This western suburb gem exudes a warm, intimate atmosphere that invites you to settle in and let the spice-soaked stories of India unfold course by course. Tucked along Old Geelong Road, it's a haven for locals craving authentic flavours without the fuss.
The menu is a celebration of traditional recipes passed down through generations - none more so than the Punjabi goat curry. It’s slow-roasted to tender perfection with the Chef’s own mix of herbs and spices, then finished with a flourish of fresh coriander. This is a dish that doesn’t just sit pretty on a plate - it demands your full attention. Pair it with fluffy garlic naan and a cooling mango kulfi and you're in for a truly transportive experience.
Spice Odysee The Hidden Kitchen – Busselton, WA
A beloved Busselton staple with more than two decades under its belt, Spice Odysee The Hidden Kitchen blends rustic charm with vibrant hospitality. Bright yellow walls and polished timber floors set the tone for a laid-back yet thoughtful dining experience, while the legacy of its mobile curry van - still a local icon - adds a sense of community heritage to every dish served.
The Goan fish curry is the undisputed hero here. Bathed in creamy coconut milk and layered with dry-roasted spices, this coastal classic captures the essence of India’s beachside cuisine. The balance is pitch perfect: rich yet clean, fiery yet fragrant. With a side of steamed basmati rice and garlic naan, it’s a dish that dances between boldness and comfort, much like the venue itself.
On the shores of Jervis Bay, Taj Indian in Huskisson is bringing secret spice blends and a breezy ambience to the South Coast. A sunlit space adorned with traditional Indian art, it walks the line between casual and refined. Whether you’re dropping in post-beach or settling in for a special evening, the welcoming service and expansive menu make it an easy go-to.
The Punjabi goat curry here holds its own among a sea of tempting choices. Slow-cooked with signature herbs and spices, it’s finished with a bright hit of coriander that lifts the dish from hearty to heavenly. Order it with a serve of saffron rice and a stack of roti and you’ve got the kind of meal that lingers in your memory long after the last bite.
Tucked into Brighton’s leafy Bay Street, Royale India is where tradition meets indulgence with an air of effortless sophistication. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming - just the right side of luxe - making it ideal for celebratory dinners or weekend feasts with friends. With more than three decades of culinary experience in the kitchen, this venue has earned its crown as a local favourite.
Among the standout offerings, the chicken Madras deserves its throne. A bold yet balanced dish simmered in mustard seeds, coconut and roasted chilli, it captures the Southern Indian spice profile with finesse. It’s a dish that brings heat, but with enough depth and creaminess to keep you reaching back for more. Add saffron rice and naan to the mix and you’re eating like royalty - exactly as intended.
Nawabi Restaurant – Surry Hills, NSW
Nawabi Restaurant in Surry Hills isn't just a meal - it’s a descent into decadence. Inspired by 400-year-old Mughlai traditions, this opulent venue crafts every detail to reflect the grandeur of royal Indian courts. From plush interiors to artful plating, Nawabi turns dinner into a regal experience, where heritage and elegance go hand-in-hand.
The beef nihari is a showstopper - rich, slow-cooked stew that simmers for hours in ghee and a blend of deeply aromatic spices. It's velvety, intense and utterly intoxicating. Served with fluffy basmati rice and warm, buttery naan, it’s a dish that transports you straight to the Imperial kitchens of old Delhi. Each bite speaks of tradition, patience and reverence for culinary craft.
From the earthy warmth of goat curry in a coastal town to the regal spice-laden stews of Mughlai royalty, Indian cuisine offers an astonishing range of experiences and these restaurants embody the very best of it. Whether you're chasing slow-cooked comfort, bold fusion or simply a great naan to mop your curry, these venues deliver in spades. Go hungry, leave satisfied and remember: the best way to explore Indian food is one slow-cooked dish at a time.
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