LOCATIONSituated between the South Parklands and Rundle Mall.
PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIAIndian Delights’ appeal lies in its family owned atmosphere and service. Chef Netra Singh moved to Australia seven years ago, bringing nearly 20 years of cooking history with him. He achieved his professional diploma in India and worked at five-star hotels in Singapore before settling in Adelaide. His daughter Aneeta mans the front-of-house where her welcoming smile adds warmth to the room. Golden coloured walls are minimally decorated with framed traditional prints and Indian vistas. There’s neither a rug in sight nor an abundance of trinkets or ornaments; more a simple, contemporary feel. Timber tables are sparsely set with side plates and yellow serviettes for casual weekday lunches then dressed in white linen for dinner service. Netra’s dining room lends itself to both function tables of feasting revellers and smaller parties ready to enjoy quality cuisine. His loyal customers are a mix of city business types and local residents who have come to know the place for its flavour-filled dishes.
Netra draws inspiration for his flavour blends from not only India, but Singapore and Malaysia too. All the standards are present with some lighter sauced dishes and unique herbs contributing to the menu’s mix. Vindaloo fiends will love to find their fix available with chicken, lamb or beef bases. Freshly ground spices, red chillies and a dash of vinegar are sure to bring eye-watering satisfaction. Chicken pistachio cooked in a tomato and onion gravy is a house specialty, and there are a good range of breads, which serve as perfect curry sponges. For dessert it’s hard to ignore the home-made ice-cream with mango and pistachio. It’s a comforting end to a lovingly prepared meal.
Roz Taylor, January 2009