Melbourne’s Best Indian Restaurants to Celebrate Diwali 2024

St Kilda is spicing things up with the gorgeous Grey Street eatery, Babu Ji. Opening their doors 10 years ago, unlike other contenders, Babu Ji stands out with a vast menu packed with plenty of authentic Indian street food. Simple yet sophisticated, ingredients are sourced from local markets and Australian farmers. And, there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options too. This Diwali, Babu Ji is celebrating the festival of lights with their four-course Diwali menu available for lunch and dinner at just $49 per person. Plus, with a glass of champagne on the house, all you need to do is arrive on an empty stomach.

Welcome to Daughter in Law – a Bourke Street based Indian restaurant that unites the exceptional skills and passion of chef Jessi Singh with her Sydney-based eatery, Pinky Ji. Described as an unauthentic Australian Indian restaurant and bar, Daughter in Law highlights their playful ambience through eclectic décor and their very un-Indian menu. The cocktail list reflects this too, incorporating unlikely contenders into classics. Take the Southern Provence made with cucumber infused gin, curry leaf, chilli, peppermint and lime. As for food, the turmeric and mustard seed Coconut Curry Prawn certainly packs a punch and is best served with a side of triple cooked garlic crispy potatoes, Jeera Aloo.

Residing on Flinders Street, Elchi is considered as one of the best Indian restaurants in Melbourne’s CBD. Not only is it one of the most unique dining destinations offering Indian cuisine like no other, but it is the perfect establishment for Diwali 2024 celebrations and beyond. Self described as a culinary masterpiece nestled in the heart of Melbourne, Elchi is led by curry queen Manpreet Sekhon who graciously rediscovers north Indian dishes with the help of high-quality ingredients. With a glass-fronted kitchen allowing guests to gaze in on the many smokers, sigdis and big pots bubbling on the stove, Elchi truly is a treat for the senses.

Tucked away in Carlton North is one of the best fine dining Indian restaurants in Melbourne. Meet Enter via Laundry. Brought to life by owner and chef who originally operated out of her Box Hill home before starring on MasterChef in 2020, today, this intimate establishment seats just 20 guests at a time. Adding to the exclusivity of Enter via Laundry, guests are fed a mystery set menu that draws its inspiration from specific regions around India. And, the address is only disclosed at booking. Using traditional dishes matched with authentic ingredients, Enter via Laundry promises to transport your tastebuds in every bite.