As most Sydneysiders know, it’s pretty hard to find a decent curry in this city, but that’s quickly changing across town, with a great example being the truly authentic fare at Manjit’s in Balmain. The reputable dining destination has built up a large local following with traditional but distinctive Indian food whipped up by a family-run business. It’s been so successful that the brand has recently expanded to their newest venture, Manjit’s at the Wharf, on King Street Wharf and it’s apparent that, just like their Balmain eatery, the focus here is on good service and authentic food.
At a recent dining experience we had a wonderful opportunity to sample the extensive menu that Manjit’s has to offer. Chef Varun Gurjal, the son of THE Manjit himself, has taken classic dishes from all over India and given them a breath of fresh air to create a truly unique and enjoyable dining experience.
Throughout the evening we were treated to four courses which started off with some wonderful canapes such as Koni Pappadi, Crab Uttapam and Tilli Prawns. The spicy kick and beautiful blend of spices from the Tilli Prawns really set the mood for the evening.
The entrees really showed off the menu’s versatility. We were first served the visually stunning Shanabuk with Seventeen Spices, which were juicy scallops ready to be dipped in a pool of spices. With so many flavours in one mouthful, it took us on a multi-sensory journey. I also enjoyed that you could flavour the scallop as much or as little as you liked, a presentation choice that also fared well for the next entrée. The Fish Malai with Infused Oils was presented on an artist’s palette with four accompanying sauces to dip as you pleased.
However, the star of the entrees was their signature dish, the Bharrah Kebab Beetroot with Mint Raita. The lamb cutlets were marinated in spices and sauce before being cooked on a skewer in a traditional tandoor (something you can observe in their open kitchen). The meat was tender and the flavours were simply divine. A really fantastic dish.
The main courses came in a flourish with a traditionally served pilau rice and family sized naan to accompany them. Never have I seen a naan bread so large before! We got to sample the Kochin Big Curry, a delicious Lamb Shoulder Anarkali, the Chicken Biryani and a Beef Vindaloo.
The most exciting main was certainly the Baingan Taka Tak which was served under a smoking cloche. The dish was an aromatic combination of eggplant, tomato, onion and a bit of spice and, once the cloche was lifted, the enticing smells wafted around the room.
After all that delicious food, it’s a wonder how we had room left for dessert. When the wonderful cones of mango and pistachio kulfi arrived, everyone dug in pretty quickly. The soothing creaminess of the kulfi was perfect after all the spices we’d just exposed our tastebuds too.
We were thoroughly impressed with the food journey that Manjit’s at the Wharf took us on. All dishes were beautifully presented and it was obvious that a lot of sincerity and love has been put into this comforting, flavourful menu. If you’re after an evening of occasion or just fancy a great curry with a fantastic view, Manjit’s is most definitely your place.
Manjit’s at the Wharf
Address: 10/49 Lime St, Sydney
Contact: (02) 9279 3379
Website: https://manjits.com.au/manjits-at-the-wharf
Hours:
Wednesday: 12–3pm, 5:30–10:30pm
Thursday: 12–3pm, 5:30–10:30pm
Friday: 12–3pm, 5:30–10:30pm
Saturday: 5:30–10:30pm
Sunday: 5:30–10:30pm
Monday: 12–3pm, 5:30–10:30pm
Tuesday: 12–3pm, 5:30–10:30pm
———-
