Twas an uneventful, crisp Saturday night - on the cusp of the break of Winter - when my friends and I with a hankering for Indian cuisine happened upon Cafe Kuma Indian Restaurant on Google and decided to give it a try. One could not predict that this split decision, or perhaps twist of fate as if we were destined to discover this hidden gem, that bought our attention to this family owned local establishment would leave us thoroughly changed and yearning for more.
Upon arrival, the titular Owner and Chef Kuma greeted us with a brilliant smile and a beneficent disposition that felt like a warm blanket on that cold night. Kuma operated with a showman flair and magnanimous congeniality, betraying not a shred of fatigue despite having worked the full length of the day. Admittedly, my friends and I aren't the most well-versed in Indian cuisine despite being quite fond of it - but being the hospitable man he is, he helped each of us decide upon a dish he felt best fulfilled our preferences.
Bedazzled by his amiable aura, we could only help but wonder how we hadn't heard of this place before, however our brief intermission of wonderment was cut short as our food arrived as swiftly as the wind and our hunger and newfound ardor set us forth into a feast I shan't forget for many years to come.
Fresh, warm, crumbly yet chewy Garlic Naan bread cooked in their Tandoori Oven (which I imagine must serve as the beating heart of the beautiful beast called Cafe Kuma). Hearty bowls of curry were set upon our table still steaming. Each one a surprise, a delight, waiting to be savoured. Robust, full-bodied, and wholesome flavours - every curry offered a scintillating combination of textures and tastes. Had I not been physically constrained by my body's refusal to accept any more, I don't doubt for one moment that in that frenzied state I found myself in upon the first bite that I could have devoured completely everything that Kuma prepared for us (with many of the items he offered free of charge!).
We came in with trepidation and yet we couldn't help but feel as the night ended that we had transcended any dining experience we'd ever had. From these accounts, you'd be surprised to learn that the only employees at Cafe Kuma are Kuma himself and his lovely wife who saw to our every need and more during our visit. Through amicable conversation we learnt of their story - and I will not spoil you dear reader the pleasure of being able to hear it for yourself from them. They are truly some of the kindest people in the world who seem to have found an endless joie-de-vivre and passion in giving people the paramount in food, entertainment and friendship - and I undoubtedly will find myself...
Read moreIf you haven't dined at Cafe Kuma in Queensland, you’re missing out on the best Indian food you will ever taste! My family has been enjoying this gem since the day it opened, and we have even traveled two hours just to indulge in the incredible dishes they offer. For four generations, Cafe Kuma has been our go-to place for celebrations—birthdays, the birth of my daughter, and now the joyous celebrations of my two grandchildren. It's a tradition we hold dear, and I can confidently say that nothing else compares to the extraordinary flavors found here. Kuma and his wife are the epitome of hospitality; they make you feel welcomed and truly cared for! And let's talk about the food—it's simply divine! The naan bread is unparalleled; you won't find anything like it anywhere else. And the butter chicken with its sweet tomato butter sauce? Pure bliss! I could rave about the food for hours, but nothing can truly convey the experience—you have to visit Cafe Kuma to understand the magic for yourself. Don't wait any longer; treat yourself and your family to dining at Kuma’s, and I promise you...
Read moreBeautiful location, friendly staff….but that’s where it ends. Ordered 4 pappadums and raiita to start (no entrees on menu). Pappadums half size of normal ones and raiita was thick sour cream. No mint etc. No description of dishes on menu so when asked questions, they couldn’t be answered. Asked for a couple of small edits to dishes but was told No. Four dishes came out and very small portions but nothing compared to the size of the rice portion!! Oh dear! Tiny is a word I’d use. A small child would eat more! Was happy they came out with 4 complimentary dishes (which in total made up to 4 normal sized portions added together). Chef came out to chat (lovely man) and we asked what one of the dishes was but he couldn’t tell us. Just said “made with love.” I’m struggling to see how so many British people love this place!! Needless to say we...
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