Award Winning Indian in the Heart of Dunedin - Chilli Dhaba
In the heart of Dunedin, Chilli Dhaba has been delighting locals since its opening in 2020, and recently been awarded a highly acclaimed award from Otago Hospitality Awards. Owned by Alex Cherian, this eatery has quickly become a beloved spot for those seeking delicious, authentic Indian cuisine!
When asked what makes running an eatery in Dunedin special, Alex's passion for the city shines through.
"We think Dunedin is the coolest city in New Zealand! We have a bustling urban scene with super laid-back locals who love to support businesses they care about," he shares. This sense of community is at the heart of Chilli Dhaba's success.
"At Chilli Dhaba, we keep it simple. Our meals are made with love, from scratch, and served to our customers as if they were family."
For those looking to experience the full 'Chilli Dhaba experience', Alex has some mouth-watering recommendations. To start, he suggests the Lamb Tikka, featuring tender lamb pieces cooked in their secret marinade and finished in the tandoor. For the main course, the Butter Chicken is a must-try.
"It's a culinary delight, done right!" Alex states. This dish features smokey and tender tandoori chicken served in a traditional, creamy sauce, topped with nuts. His top tip for enjoying this dish? "Use your naan bread to 'soak up' any extra sauce!"
No meal at Chilli Dhaba is complete without a refreshing Mango Lassi to finish. This beverage, made from juicy, ripe mangoes and fresh, creamy yoghurt, is the perfect complement, especially if you've been brave enough to 'spice up' your curry.
One of the unique aspects of dining at Chilli Dhaba is knowing that every curry is made from scratch just for you. This dedication to freshness and authenticity is a nod to the traditional dhabas of India. Dhabas are no-frills, rural roadside eateries commonly located near petrol stations, highways, or at the edges of towns, which first emerged in the Indian states of Punjab and Haryana. They served as convenient rest stops for truck drivers. "Some say that the best Indian food they have ever tried comes from a dhaba, with the exception of those in Dunedin," Alex adds with a smile.
At Chilli Dhaba, the combination of heartfelt cooking and a welcoming atmosphere creates a dining experience that feels like home. Whether you're a Dunedin local or just passing through, a visit to Chilli Dhaba promises a taste of authentic Indian hospitality and flavours that will linger long after the meal is over.
