The Tandoor

It's nearly two decades that The Tandoor has been in Melbourne. There is good reason. It is among the best Indian restaurants. Host Banny Bannerjee knows how to make a diner welcome. The staff are polite and helpful, service is fast, and the food wholesome with robust flavour. New ideas are served up all the time.

The Sunday special thali brunch is popular. This consists of a platter with rice or roti and small serves of meat, vegetables and pickles. There is a select wine list for dinner. A favourite beverage is the mango lassi - thick, sweetened buttermilk with pureed fresh mangoes ($3). Massala dosai - a crisp, light, paper-thin crepe with curried potato filling served with coconut chutney ($9) is recommended for an entrée. Or share the kebab-om-ka-mela, a tray of tandoori meats, chicken wings and fish served on a bed of lettuce ($19.50).

517 Chapel Street
South Yarra
Indian Cuisine
Melways reference 2L:J7
Phone: 9827 8247
Opening hours: Lunch: Wed-Sun 12 noon-2.30pm, Dinner: 7 days 6-10.30pm
Licensed & BYO
Corkage: $2 per bottle
Accepts credit cards
Seats Inside: 85
Features: Restricted smoking, kids encouraged
Favourites: Masala Dosa with samber with coconut chutney $9, Chicken butter masala $16, Pumpkin a la tandoor $12.50

*An updated review can be found in Mietta's Eating & Drinking in Australia 2000 pg92, published by Black Inc., 2000, Vic