If you're craving an authentic South Indian food experience on the Gold Coast, Kolapasi Indian Canteen at Mermaid Beach is a must-visit. This charming spot brings the flavors of South India to life with its vibrant menu and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The restaurantâs dĂ©cor is simple yet cozy, offering a relaxed vibe perfect for a casual meal with friends or family. The star of the show, however, is the food. From the first bite, itâs clear that Kolapasi takes pride in serving authentic, freshly prepared dishes. The dosa is a standoutâcrispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and paired with an array of flavorful chutneys and sambar that perfectly balance the dish. The idli, another South Indian staple, is light and fluffy, accompanied by the signature chutneys that elevate the taste.
For those who enjoy a hearty, spiced meal, the Chettinad chicken curry is a crowd favorite, rich in aromatic spices and tender chicken. The biryani is another must-try, full of flavors and perfectly cooked rice. Vegetarians will also find plenty of options, with dishes like the mixed vegetable curry and the medu vada offering delightful, comforting flavors.
The service is friendly and efficient, with staff eager to help you navigate the menu and ensure your dining experience is top-notch. Portion sizes are generous, and the prices are reasonable for the quality of food you're getting.
Whether you're a South Indian cuisine aficionado or a newcomer, Kolapasi offers a genuine taste of southern India thatâs hard to beat on the Gold Coast. If you're in the area and want to experience authentic, home-style South Indian cooking, Kolapasi is definitely...
   Read moreStaying close by and needed sustenance. I donât like to eat food in restaurants that I can cook for myself and saw this cute little restaurant. We were greeted with the happiest human Iâve ever had the pleasure of meeting. We were immediately offered samples for tasting before we committed to dishes unknown. We went with the beef roast (med spicy). We paired that with the keto yoghurt rice to tame that medium spice, cunningly disguised as liquid hot magma. We also ordered the chicken Nilgiri (med spicy). The flavours of the nilgiri transported me back to my childhood. We complimented the nilgiri with the beetroot pudding. The obligatory Butter chicken and the chicken chettinad (med spicy). We got a plain rice and a sweet pudding (canât remember the name). We also ordered the garlic naan and the parotta.
All meals came out in generous portions.
The butter and the chettinad chickens were saucy but not all sauce unlike all the other restaurants that are all sauce with a little meat. The Nilgiri and the Beef were dryer. These dishes were packed with flavour and you could taste each herb and spice. The sign of fresh food. Obviously we brought a heap of leftovers home because it was just the two of us⊠but I am looking forward to lunch tomorrow.
They also donât charge for water.
I can say, hand on my heart, I wonât order from any other Indian restaurant. This food was incredible.
Iâve put the samples beside the menu item. Donât let the current roadworks deter you from coming here. Also⊠Uber eats is your friend. (Bare in mind, you wonât get to sample before you make...
   Read moreAlright, let's talk about Kolapasi Indian Canteen on the Gold Coast! My recent experience there left me with a warm and satisfied feeling, especially after digging into their Chicken Chettinad with Parotta. The Chicken Chettinad was truly a standout. The rich, dark gravy was bursting with flavour â that beautiful blend of roasted spices hit all the right notes, with a pleasant warmth that lingered without being overpowering. The chicken itself was tender and had clearly been allowed to soak up all that deliciousness. And the Parotta? Flaky, layered, and perfectly crisp, it was the ideal vehicle for scooping up every last bit of that flavourful gravy. A truly heartwarming combination. Beyond the main course, the Rasam rice was a comforting and light counterpoint. The tangy and peppery Rasam was exactly what you'd hope for â flavourful and invigorating, and it paired beautifully with the simple, fluffy rice. The Okra fry was another winner. Perfectly crisp without being greasy, and seasoned just right, it added a lovely textural element to the meal. Overall, my experience at Kolapasi Indian Canteen was fantastic. The food felt authentic and prepared with care. If you're looking for some genuinely delicious and soul-satisfying South Indian flavours on the Gold Coast, especially that incredible Chicken Chettinad with Parotta, then Kolapasi is definitely worth a visit. I left feeling completely satisfied and would happily return to explore more...
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