Chapati A Taste of India

Written by David Hagger on 10 April 2025.

Craving a top-notch Indian dining adventure in Melbourne with curry cocktails?  Chapati Melbourne in Crossley St CBD delivers India on a plate—a sensory voyage across Punjab’s fiery tadka, Kerala’s coconut-kissed coast, Mumbai’s street chaos, and Bengal’s homey classics, all under one roof. 

Nestled in the iconic former Ginger Boy space, Chapati, just months old, honours and at times redefines history with bold flavors. Plates dazzle like art—deep, rich colors paired with nuanced, customizable sauces. 

Street snacks steal the show: Dahi Puri bursts with sweet yogurt and tamarind, while Samosa Chaat struts Mumbai swagger. Chicken Tikka Tandoori oozes smoky succulence; Gun Powder Potatoes gleam with ghee-roasted perfection. Don’t miss the creamy Prawn Malabar or the 18-hour slow-cooked Dhal Bukhara—soul-warming triumphs. 

Classics shine brighter here. Onion Bhajia crisps to perfection, and the Burra Kebab—yogurt-marinated lamb cutlets—chars tandoori-style, divine and tender. The standout for me was the Lamb Vindaloo: succulent lamb in a fiery Goan curry, paired with fluffy rice, comforting naan, and staple chapati bread. 

Sweet Gulab Jamun seals the deal—a flawless finish. 

Pair your meal with fine wines such as an Atticus Syrah 2011 or luxe TWG tea. The twist here is the Curry cocktails! The Tandoori Temptress (tequila, pineapple, curry leaves) and Sunset Over The Himalayas (smoked apple whisky sour) dazzle with flair and unique charm.

Service is impeccable. Owner Arjun’s hospitality dazzles (with an exceptional team), while his rockstar mum, fresh from India, guides the kitchen with royal recipes.