LOCATIONOn the Darlinghurst end of Crown Street, two minutes' walk from Oxford Street.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIAAdd a touch of exotic spice to your next Darlinghurst dining excursion, where the rich aromas of garam masala, cumin and mustard fill the nostrils and warm the lungs. Housed in a turn-of-the-century church, boasting grand arches and warm hues, The Clove Indian restaurant has won over a steady band of regulars since its establishment 19 years ago. Spread over two levels, couples, groups and families gravitate to this homely eatery for traditional Indian cuisine and subtle flavours. The ever-accommodating Nash and band of attentive waiters strive to cater for each and every guest’s dietary requirements. Upstairs, the private function room fills with people feasting on delicious banquets; downstairs, diners take their pick from the extensive menu and list of blackboard specials.
Start the feast with the popular vegetable and onion pakoras – delicious, savoury little packages evolving from spiced lentil flour. For the main event try the Bengal specialty mustard fish – fish fillets cooked in a bath of mustard, coconut, herbs and spices. The chef’s specialty lamb curry sees tandoori lamb cutlets served in a medium-hot curry sauce. Vegetarians are equally well catered for, with an entire section of the menu dedicated to vegie-focused fare. Indian yum-cha is the perfect solution for special occasions or group functions, with a number of banquet options on offer. Wash it all down with a traditional lassi or a selection from the wine list.
Lauren Barker, December 2008