Delhi ‘O’ Delhi, Newtown: One of the best Indian restaurants in Sydney
It’s been 18 years since award-winning restaurant – Delhi ‘O’ Delhi – first opened its doors in Newtown.
Nestled behind bustling King Street on Erskineville Road, the critically acclaimed restaurant has picked up a bunch of awards along the way. This includes an Australian Good Food Guide Chef Hat and numerous hospitality and tourism awards.
Founded by hospitality veteran Javed Khan – who brings a five-star customer experience into a more intimate setting – it has become a mainstay of Sydney’s dining scene, known for its consistency and warm, attentive service.
The restaurant’s design is minimalist and thoughtful. The clean, uncluttered space creates a calm environment where food takes centre stage. Wine glasses are etched with subtle spice motifs, and a green feature wall adorned with antique door knockers and traditional block printing pays quiet homage to fading Indian art forms.
Delhi ‘O’ Delhi has built strong ties to its community having been involved with ongoing fundraisers and supporting local producers. And the community clearly can’t get enough of the place – it was absolutely buzzing on the night of our visit.
While the restaurant has evolved, its commitment to authentic Indian flavours has remained unchanged. Around 85% of the menu is inspired by North Indian cuisine, with select dishes representing the South. Traditional recipes are honoured while gently adapted for local palates, using spices imported directly from India.
Many dishes reflect Javed’s upbringing, including a signature dish inspired by his mother’s Friday ritual of cooking a special meal after prayer. Standout dishes include the Masala Goat, Achamma’s Camel Curry, and Butter Chicken with Pepe Saya butter.
On the poultry menu, our top pick is the Chicken Tikka Masala which features classic tandoor cooked chicken morsels with tomato, fresh coriander, ginger, garlic and green chillies. Spicy, creamy and super scrumptious.
On the seafood menu, highlights include Goan Macchi (Australian barramundi fish fillets with turmeric, mustard seeds, star anise and coconut cream) and Macher Kalia (Bengali fish delicacy, with raisins, green chilly and onion paste). But you simply cannot go past the Tawa Masala Prawn – prawns folded with onion tomato masala and aromatic tawa masala. One of the tastiest dishes you could try – so delightful, spicy and bursting with flavour.
To wash it all down, there are a plethora of options including a selection of some of Australia’s best wines, an incredible cocktail list and some fine non-alcoholic alternatives such as the Mango Lassi – a creamy yogurt-based drink which offers a unique and refreshing way to end your meal on a high.
Delhi ‘O’ Delhi is one of Newtown’s hidden gems where you’re guaranteed a high-quality dining experience. With its amazing food, five-star customer service and welcoming vibe, it’s without a doubt one of Sydney’s best Indian restaurants.
Delhi ‘O’ Delhi
3 Erskineville Road, Newtown
www.delhiodelhi.com.au
