2 Best Restaurants in Otago, Invercargill, and Stewart Island, New Zealand

The authentic Indian food on the good-size menu at this family-run restaurant is cooked in a traditional charcoal-fired tandoor oven. Som, the friendly owner, welcomes diners into a former bank building that is now a spacious, 74-seat restaurant with wood floors and stylish modern decor. Lamb, chicken, seafood, and vegetarian plates prepared in different ways give diners plenty of choices. A long list of New Zealand and Australian wines, as well as local craft beers, are on offer.  

Influenced by the flavors of northern India (and the kitchen of founder Sukhi's grandmother), this family business began in Dunedin and now has restaurants spanning the country. The spacious and modern eateries offer traditional cooking methods; warm hospitality and generous portions keep diners coming back. The display of lampshades covering one wall is an odd decorative choice given the lack of embellishment elsewhere, but an open fireplace adds a nice touch during winter. There's a good selection of Indian beers and an excellent choice of wines that complement the dishes. Reservations are a good idea, but not a requirement.

Influenced by the flavors of northern India (and the kitchen of founder Sukhi's grandmother), this family business began in Dunedin in 1991 and has become a chain spanning the country. Spacious and modern eateries meet traditional cooking methods, and warm hospitality and generous portions of spicy vindaloos and Bengali fish preparations are among the hallmarks. A good selection of Indian beers and excellent wines complement dishes.