We went on a Friday evening for the buffet; closer to home than the other Sri Lankan restaurants we have been to previously. We arrived at 6.30 pm and once we started our meal it seemed obvious that most of the food in the bain maries and under lights had been there for a while. The biryani was dried out and the pork (kung pao - not sure that is Sri Lankan?) was rock-hard and unpleasant to eat. Also on offer were another rice dish, prawn crackers and string and plain hoppers (all of which I did not try), an OK chicken drumstick curry, dhal (a bit runny but tasty), a nice squid curry, paratha, Sri Lankan bread, egg hoppers (A+), and a half dozen condiments. Cold/soggy chips and chicken nuggets for children of all ages. There were no vegetable curry dishes, and the breads/hoppers would have been more inviting had there been something additional in which to scoop/dip them. The 2 desserts I tried did not seem to be Sri Lankan; the chocolate concoction was overly sweet, the cream & berry coulis was yummy. The welcome and service was friendly, but the food was a disappointment. It's hard to know if our timing was off, or the other reviews were generous. It may be much closer to home, but next time we'll drive further for a...
Read moreMy family and friends ventured to Yaatraa, a Sri Lankan restaurant in Nunawading Melbourne, for their Friday night buffet. Let me tell you, it was an absolute delight! Every dish was cooked to perfection, bursting with flavor and showcasing the vibrant diversity of Sri Lankan Cuisine. The buffet had so much to pick from and something for everyone. There was even a little selection of kid-friendly dishes, like chicken nuggets and potato wedges, which kept the little ones happy.
But it wasn't just the food that impressed us. The restaurant itself was beautifully clean and inviting, with warm lighting and comfortable seating. The atmosphere was lively and friendly, perfect for a casual family dinner. There was plenty of space, even with the buffet in full swing, so we never felt cramped or crowded.
We left Yaatraa feeling happy, full, and very satisfied. It was the perfect way to end our week, and we can't wait to go back and try more of their delicious dishes. If you're looking for a great Sri Lankan dining experience in Melbourne, I highly...
Read more"Absolutely delighted with my experience at Yaathra.From the moment I stepped in, I was greeted with warmth and hospitality. The aroma of authentic Sri Lankan spices filled the air, preparing me for a culinary journey like no other.The menu boasted a diverse array of traditional dishes, each bursting with rich flavors and vibrant colors. I couldn't resist trying a variety of curries, from the aromatic devilled chicken to the tangy prawns curry, all expertly prepared and perfectly balanced in taste. The accompanying sides of coconut sambol and dhal complemented the main dishes wonderfully, adding an extra layer of depth to the meal.The service was impeccable, with attentive staff members who were more than happy to provide recommendations and ensure that every aspect of my dining experience was top-notch. The ambiance of the place was cozy and inviting.Overall, Yaathra exceeded all my expectations. I left feeling satisfied and eager to return for another unforgettable dining experience. Highly recommended for anyone craving authentic Sri...
Read more