Menu of Canteen India | Indian Restaurant in Melbourne in Vermont South, Victoria, Australia

Menu Overview

Canteen India, tucked away at shop 9/477-479 Burwood Hwy in Vermont South, Melbourne, is a true sanctuary for lovers of authentic Indian cuisine. This restaurant brilliantly captures the vibrant flavors and rich culinary heritage of Mumbai and Malvani coastal regions, offering a menu that feels like a warm embrace for anyone seeking genuine Indian tastes.

The highlight of their menu has to be the Malvani Chicken Thali. It presents a harmonious blend of spices and freshness, showcasing the coastal Malvani flavors that are both robust and nuanced. Each element is thoughtfully curated—the tender Malvani chicken paired with perfectly soft chapatis truly embodies the depth of traditional Indian cooking. The thali captures a balance that’s neither overwhelming nor bland, hitting the perfect note on every bite.

For those who favor rich and creamy dishes, the Butter Chicken is a must-try. Its nut-based, slow-cooked sauce envelops the chicken with a luscious, velvety texture, delivering the classic comfort food appeal. Paired with the freshly made, buttery Butter Naan, this dish creates a perfect symphony of flavors and textures. Customers repeatedly praise this duo, highlighting fresh bread and the dish’s balanced spices as standouts.

The menu also excels in vegetarian offerings. The Palak Paneer Thali is an exquisite North Indian delicacy made with creamy pureed spinach and soft paneer, accompanied by Daal Bukhara, raita, naan, rice, and papad. This set menu is an example of how comfort and nutrition meet in Indian cuisine, providing a wholesome, satisfying meal. Similarly, the Butter Paneer Thali brings a rich, indulgent experience with its slow-cooked, creamy, nutty sauce and cubes of paneer.

Street food enthusiasts will find themselves delighted by the Bombay Grilled Sandwich, available during the Saturday brunch slot. The layering of fresh vegetables, spicy green chutney, Bombay style masala, and melted cheese all wrapped in crisp butter-toasted bread transports you straight to the bustling food stalls of Mumbai. This sandwich is both full-bodied and flavorful, offering a nostalgic experience for those familiar with Indian street cuisine and a thrilling introduction for newcomers.

Those looking to explore deeper regional flavors will appreciate dishes like the Railway Goat Curry, a mildly spiced Anglo-Indian masterpiece inspired by the historic Mumbai-Bengal railway’s culinary legacy. Its slow-cooked goat in a sauce enriched with coconut milk offers a unique aroma and comforting warmth, making it a standout non-vegetarian dish.

Desserts such as the Gulab Jamun with Mango Cream add a delightful twist to traditional sweets, combining syrup-soaked dumplings with luscious, tropical mango cream—a perfect finale to an indulgent meal. The inclusion of Chat Masala Papad and Mumbai Samosa Chaat offers vibrant, tangy starters that awaken the palate and showcase the brilliance of Indian spices and textures.

Customer reviews echo the excellence of the menu and service. Pranali Shinde applauds the authenticity and freshness of the Malvani Chicken Thali and soft chapatis, while Nusrat Sharmin Jemima emphasizes the flavorful butter chicken paired with soft naan and the delightful chaat, rounding off her meal with comforting chai. Madhura Kulkarni highlights the perfect balance of spices across every dish, praising the fluffy pohe and the incredible solkadhi that beautifully complements the meal.

Service at Canteen India matches the culinary standards, praised for its warmth and attentiveness, creating a welcoming environment that feels like dining among friends. Owner interaction adds to the charm, making every visit personal and memorable.

In conclusion, Canteen India in Melbourne is not just a restaurant; it’s a culinary journey through Mumbai and Malvani flavors wrapped in genuine hospitality. Whether you crave a hearty thali, street food favorites, or rich curries, this hidden gem delivers authenticity with every dish. Highly recommended for anyone serious about experiencing the true essence of Indian cuisine in Melbourne.