Spicy India

Spicy India brings a vivid slice of the subcontinent to Cairns City Centre, all bright flavours, warm smiles and generous plates.

Close to the Esplanade, it is the sort of place where the spice levels are dialled to delight and the service keeps pace with the breeze off the water. The mood is relaxed and convivial, made for lingering over conversation as much as for savouring those unmistakable Indian aromas.

The kitchen roams happily from street-side cravings to comfort cooking. Think momos and idli sambar, pav bhaji and a masala omelette, or a riot of street chaat where samosa papdi aloo chaat and dhai bhalla bring tang, crunch and chilli in equal measure. It is a joyful, snackable prelude that sets the rhythm for the meal.

From the tandoor come crowd-pleasers like chicken tikka, prawn tandoori and paneer tikka, while butter chicken and kadai dishes offer rich, spiced gravies to scoop with paneer kulcha or aloo paratha.

There is an easy-going global streak too: Hakka noodles and fried rice nod to Indo-Chinese comfort, pasta napolitana and creamy garlic pasta provide a mellow detour, and Chef’s Special platters or bunny pao chow invite sharing.

For an easy night out with big-hearted flavours, this is a winning bet. Swing by, settle in, and let the chilli do the chatting.