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Chaat, chutneys & celebration: a food lover’s guide to the best eats this Diwali

Come hungry — this food trail serves up India’s street food soul, right in the heart of Sydney.

Street food in Little India.

Street food in Little India.

As the festive lights twinkle and the sweet scent of mithais fills the air, there’s no place in Sydney that glows quite like Harris Park during Diwali. Wigram Street transforms into a lit bazaar, a vibrant echo of India’s street food culture, where the crackle of frying snacks meets the laughter of families and the glitter of diyas. If you’ve ever longed for the taste of home, or simply want to indulge in a festive feast, this is the place to be.

Let’s take you on a delicious Indian food trail through Sydney’s Little India, one irresistible bite at a time.

Pani Puri at SK Chaat

When at Harris Park, eat pani puri, also known as golgappa. This is where the Indian food trail begins. SK Chaat is a legend among locals for its pani puri. These wafer-thin, perfectly crisp puris filled with spiced potato, chickpeas, and sweet, tangy, and spicy water are a one bite flavour bomb. It’s the kind of snack that isn’t just eaten, it’s experienced.

Raj Kachori at Taj Restaurant

Next head to Taj Restaurant to try the king of chaats, the mighty raj kachori. A golden, globe-shaped puri stuffed with spiced potatoes, chutneys, a generous swirl of yoghurt, and sev. This dish is as stunning to look at as it is to eat. Each bite is a delicate balance of crunch, creaminess, spice, and sweetness. A colourful flavour explosion. Don’t be surprised if you end up snapping a dozen photos before your first bite.

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King of chaats, raj kachori.

Dosa at Taj A2B- Adyar Ananda Bhavan

Craving dosas? A2B makes the best golden crisp, paper-thin dosas. The masala dosa and Mysore masala dosa are the most popular order here. Spiced potato masala and red chutney tucked inside dosa, served with hearty sambhar and their three traditional chutneys — coconut, tomato, and coriander — is soul food to many. There’s something deeply satisfying about tearing a dosa with your hands, dipping it, and savouring the first warm, spiced mouthful. This is comfort food in its purest form.

Handmade Momo Stall

Just down the street, follow the aroma of steaming dumplings to the Momo Stall. Here, the momo are handmade fresh right in front of you and then steamed to perfection. Watching them being crafted is a delight in itself. Pair these with their fiery red chutney, and you’ve got the kind of street snack that keeps you coming back for more. And if you’re a fan of fried dumplings, their kurkure momo is a must-try.

Momos.
Fresh handmade momo.

Biryani at Dosa Hut

If there’s one dish that says celebration, it’s biryani. Dosa Hut, known across the country as a biryani destination, is Sydney’s second most reviewed restaurant, and for good reason. Their chicken dum biryani is an absolute must-try. This fragrant royal affair of long-grain basmati, tender chicken, and masala is favourite food of many. Pro tip: ask for “double masala” for an extra burst of flavour.

Pav Bhaji at Chatkazz

No trip to Harris Park is complete without paying homage to the number one Indian street food restaurant in Australia — Chatkazz. This is the most reviewed restaurant in the country, and their Mumbai pav bhaji has achieved cult status. Buttery pav with thick and spicy bhaji gravy, this is iconic street food of India done right in Sydney. Wash it all down with their famous Masala Thumbs Up for that perfect flavour ride.

Butter Chicken at Asees Restaurant

Finally, everyone’s favourite, butter chicken. A dish that needs no introduction. Creamy, buttery, and full of heart-warming flavour. Asees Restaurant is your go-to spot in Harris Park for this beloved classic.

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Creamy butter chicken and garlic naan.

Each bite is a perfect balance of tender chicken simmered in a velvety tomato-butter gravy that feels like a warm hug. If garlic naan is your usual pick, this time try their famous rumali roti. You will enjoy this Indian bread upgrade, paper-thin, soft, and delicately folded like a handkerchief. It’s the perfect match for mopping up every last bit of that luscious gravy.

Join the festivity and celebrate this Diwali the delicious way with vibrant flavours, festive vibes, and Little India’s iconic eats.

Love the story? Follow the author, Reeth P Arora here: Instagram @nomadicfoodiereeth

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SBS Food is a 24/7 foodie channel for all Australians, with a focus on simple, authentic and everyday food inspiration from cultures everywhere. NSW stream only.
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4 min read

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By Reeth P Arora
Source: SBS


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