Nilgiri’s Restaurant & Cooking Classes

The Tiffin section downstairs is good for lunch with workmates. It’s a little pricey, but it’s made up for in the quality of the food — really excellent Indian curries. Just be warned that it can get a bit noisy in the echoey room. I’ve also been upstairs once for the buffet lunch, but it’s too expensive for lunch at about $ 30 per head.

I lived near Bradford in the UK 15 years so If you are looking for a classic British style Indian meal that is not what you are going to get.
But if you are looking for good Indian food with good service and a good lively atmosphere then this is the place for you.

After months of telling myself that I have to try their wonderful sounding buffet out, I finally made it last Sunday. After a heavy Sat nite booze fest, the first thing I crave when I wake up is curry, simple good old fashioned pouring with mom’s love food! If you ever had nights like that you will know what I mean. But I digress, the food here was phenomenal. One of the best Indian meals I have had in Sydney, and their Buffet selection is extensive and good for the price you are paying. From mini masala dosais my favourite, to chola bhaturas, plus a lot of other delicious Indian Street food varieties, they have some very authentic and delicious regional curries. The theme for the month was Punjab and Rajasthan which are two distinct regions in India with unique flavours. And Niligiri’s nailed every dish on the menu in terms of flavours. The buffet menu apparently changes every month or so. And, for the price of $ 35 per person, it is very good value for money as well. The laal maas goat in spicy curry) and Gatta curry (which I can’t for the life of me describe in english!), were awesome, and so was the live bread counter which was serving hot naan bread. The deserts were all Indian classics with Kulfi (Indian style semifredo), Carrot Halwa, and Kheer (rice pudding).Phew! and yes there was more stuff too, and yes I ate it all… Move those judging eyes away now, I need to burst into a Bollywood jig now to express happiness!

I’ve been here a couple of times for the Sunday Buffet and this restaurant never disappoints. one of the best service for restaurants and one of the most delicious and closest to authentic Indian food I’ve ever had… I maybe being too critical by giving it 4 stars, however this time I just felt a couple of things in the vegetarian selections were a bit disappointing. .but overall amazing food n worth going again n again

Nilgiri’s buffet is amazing! Authentic Indian cuisine, including items you won’t find at most Indian restaurants. Each time I go, there are different curry offerings, but they always have freshly made Masala Dosai and Naan. The owner, Ajoy, has published cookbooks and runs cooking classes periodically (haven’t been yet but it’s on my list!). They’ve recently gone up from $ 25 per person to $ 30 for the buffet, but it is still well worth it. A glass of wine or beer is also included in the price. There is a menu-​based part of the restaurant downstairs, but I recommend going for the buffet, though it is only offered Wednesdays — Fridays and Sundays. Get there early or make a booking, as it will be very crowded at lunchtime. This place deserves a special trip. Definitely 5 stars!

Excellent indian food and excellent service. Only drawback was that it was very busy and therefore a little noisy. But that is being picky because in general it was an excellent experience.
I have heard people come from all over Sydney to eat here and I can see why.

Wow — never had upscale Indian, and they definitely nail it.

One of the finest places to have Indian food is Nilgiri’s at St leonards. It’s a fine dining restaurant, owned and operated by award winning chef Ajoy Joshi.
It takes you on a voyage to India — offering cuisines from the different states. There are some items on the menu that are permanent like masala dosai, my all-​time favourite. Niligiri’s has four private rooms named after the four elements (Air, water, earth and fire) which can be booked .
Ajoy is so passionate about his food that he expects the same from his staff. He lets his chefs express their creativity by giving them enough freedom. They have an open kitchen for customers to not only taste but experience Indian food.
Leading this philosophy Ajoy also offers cooking classes for parents and kids which are a great favourite with restaurant connoisseurs. Nilgiri’s even has something called chef’s table where Ajoy personally cooks 8 to 10 degustation menu in front of the party. I can just imagine what an experience that would be.
They have a Sunday buffet lunch offering a variety of exotic food. Perfect for lazy Sunday afternoon when you can have long nap after having the delightful buffet which is bound to leave you stuffed. try the rose flavoured home made kulfi .ummm.
This place is truly magical.