Bhaji On The Beach

The Northern Beaches is an unlikely setting for an authentic southern Indian restaurant; yet, here it is. Bhaji on the Beach has been treating locals to regional specialities since it opened in 2001 and folks from up and down the peninsula make the journey here for consistently satisfying fare. Southern Indian forgoes the northern tandoor oven and spices are aromatic instead of hot. This is more-ish food; the flavours are full-bodied, but not heavy. Stars include the chickpea-battered onion bhaji fritter, chicken chettinad and beef varutha. Don't forget a paratha, the region's version of a naan.