The 11 best Indian restaurants in Durban

Serving Durban since 1997, Amaravathi Palki Restaurant has been commended for its exceptional services and incomparable Indian dishes. With India regarded as the universe of spices, one can’t help but deem these allegations as completely valid. In its string of talents, Palki’s ability to prepare dishes for both vegetarian and non-vegetarian masses is beyond impressive, making everyone feel included in experiencing what India feels like in spoonfuls. Whether you’re feeling like breyani or a bunny chow from the gods, the trained chefs brought in from New Delhi, Madras, Bangalore and Hyderabad will make every meal tasted, one worth making your palate yearn for! Feel free to come to Palki and create memories through good company, but even better cuisine!

Although Indian Summer based in Glen Ashley, Durban North doesn’t have your typical Indian restaurant interior, the food is the complete opposite! With remarks of its simplicity left at the doorstep, the vocal sounds that rally behind your first taste of any snack or meal are what reminds you not to judge a book by its cover. The timeless dishes are followed by a couple of ‘never say never’ moments, especially after gobbling up a Vegetable Pakoda, which is a starter with sliced veggies deeply fried in butter. Who would’ve thought that being a meat lover, I could spend minutes without thinking about it. For those that enjoy marvelling at the beauty of nature, the luscious gardens surrounding the restaurant will keep you busy whilst waiting for your order to be prepared.

The humble beginnings of Curry Os is a story similar to those many venturing into the food and hospitality sector. This food giant began as a tuckshop that sold various food items like pickles, roti and cape cookies, to name a few. In 2006, owner Ranjini Naidoo took up the test and bought a food trailer, trading from a parking lot, culminating in their relocation to the Point Waterfront in 2016. Awarded in the Best Bunny Chow category in the 2024 Best of Durban Readers’ Choice Awards, this is proof that you haven’t had a bunny chow if it’s not from Curry Os.

If it is as good as it looks, then it surely deserves a 5-star rating. The phenomenal plating style of Bombay Blu is enough to trick your stomach into thinking you’ve already eaten and are good to go! With an assortment of North Indian curries to take your tastebuds on an adventure and rotis made from scratch, you will get served the freshness you deserve.

De Má is dearly adored for its heavenly breyanis and generous plating portions. The restaurant in Gateway Theatre of Shopping has expertise in high quality Indian dishes and treats. Included in their savoury appetisers are bujiyas, samoosas, paneer, iconic curries and so much more! And like the Indian community does best - uniting scores of people, particularly loved ones, because they play a pivotal role in the development of family structures - De Ma offers full service catering. It also has a swift take away and delivery service so you can enjoy your favourite eats in the comfort of your home and in no rush! As an expression of gratitude, meetings and employee workshops are also accommodated.

If you’re into the 'stop, buy and enjoy at a later stage' vibe, Bachao is for you! Served hot and fresh, this street food glory makes you feel like you’re in India. Loosely translated as ‘save me’ in the Hindi language, Bachao is indicative of the intricacies of not losing sight of your background, no matter the circumstances! Bachao is well acclaimed for its versatility of Indian food options, focusing on all corners of the country, not just one specific area.

The spiciness of Indian cuisine coupled with the perfect sundowner is the perfect combination. Jaipur Palace serves a variety of cocktails and other beverages to ensure you’re satisfied. Based in the affluent area of Durban North, the meals on offer are top notch, with the flavour-bombs demanding your attention from the first bite.

With its roots deeply embedded in the state of Kerala, Thava Indian Restaurant should be a home to those who claim they cannot live without buffets and are fond of the palm trees. Thava has received respect for its speciality in Indian and non-Indian cuisine. Hailed for its creativity, fresh locally-sourced ingredients, diligent use of herbs, spices, and extraordinary cooking techniques - there’s no way to level up your palate other than the Thava way! Bookings for catering services, both intimate and grand festivities, are tendered at a first come, first serve basis. So to avoid any disappointments, ensure you effectively plan ahead.

Copper Chimney Take Away and Family Restaurant has an array of meals at excellent prices. Speaking to South Africa’s current economic status, whether you include your outing to this restaurant in your budget or not, you definitely won’t be set back drastically. Coming to relevance through coherent crafting of Indian dishes since 1998, Copper Chimney’s traditional recipes are the essence of uniqueness, unity and love - having been passed down from mother to daughter, a reflection of the power of generational wealth and rigid frame of reference.

Holding in high regard the authenticity of Indian cuisine, Swaadisht Foods Royale embraces the origins of the diverse cultures of India. Boasting 120 dishes on its menu, this opulent yet comfortable ambience located in Umhlanga will take you on a journey that not only will surprise you, but that will leave you wanting more and more.

With over 150 menu options, the Gate of India lives up to the saying, ‘variety is the spice of life.’ If you’re a newcomer to the streets of Indian delicacies, after indulging in their tandoori delights, you will be ready for more. From their infamous chicken tikka, succulent lamb seekh kebabs and traditional Indian curries, your curiosity to what’s next will always be unleashed. So if you’re undecided on what to serve on any special occasion, be it an anniversary celebration or congratulatory dinner, keep this haven on speed dial so it comes to your rescue. And as you’re told when you set foot on the entrance, ‘every dish is a testament to the culinary heritage of North India.’