Our meal started with the best drink you could ever order with your dinner _ mango lassi ($5.50).
The main problem you have with this drink is consuming it too quickly.
If you like alcohol with your dinner, there are also plenty of regular options, from beer and wine to spirits. Then came the difficult part _ trying to narrow down the abundant options and choose meals.
My wife and 13-year-old daughter started with a vegetarian platter for two ($20), which offered five different selections and with two pieces of each. The onion bhaji and paneer aloo tikki were particular favourites, but each offered a new taste sensation.
I decided on tandoori prawns ($18), which came slightly crunchy and with a nice little kick to them.
For mains, the vegetarians shared a potato dish _ aloo gobi ($15) _ and a vegetarian biryani ($18). The meat-eater, on the advice of manager Ranjit, opted for the lamb pasandra ($20.50), a creamy yoghurt sauce with melt-in-your-mouth chunks of divine lamb. Throw in the accompanying rice and naan bread and we are in taste-bud heaven.
The degree of heat is up to you. I went with the mild option, the vegetarians bravely went for medium. The mains arrived in beautiful individual silver dishes that fitted the decor perfectly.
To finish, we tried a traditional Indian dessert _ gulab jamun ($6). Served hot or cold, it is a sweet cake-like dumpling.
Everything about Little India is understated but completely satisfying. Even the prices leave you with a smile on your face. The decor and background music set the scene and the staff are attentive without being an unwanted fourth guest at your table.
With takeaway and delivery services and the fine in-restaurant offering, Little India is a great dining option.
