Indian Mehfil

Overview

After an eternity of sweltering days, it seems like winter is finally coming to Brisbane. And while light, healthy meals will suffice almost all year round, when the temperature starts to drop there's just nothing better than a hearty Indian curry.

'Mehfil' literally translates to a gathering of people, and Indian Mehfil is built on a philosophy of socialising and sharing. Located on Felix Street in Brisbane's CBD (a short walk from Eagle Street Pier), it's an ideal place for a client dinner or casual Saturday night with friends; however, the best time to go is undoubtedly weekday lunchtime.

Then, you can choose from a range of takeaway lunchtime curries for under $10, including the deliciously rich and creamy butter chicken. If dining in is more your style, the $15 all-you-can-eat lunch buffet will be right up your alley. The buffet options vary from day to day but usually include a dahl, a vegetarian curry, a chicken curry and a red meat curry as well as rice and raita.

You can also order from the extensive a la carte menu. The menu of share plates includes tandoori chicken ($20.99), namkeen squid ($16.99) and fish tikka ($19.50). Mains include classic dishes such as lamb rogan josh and chicken tikka masala (both $21.99), as well as more exotic options such as lobster Bombay (a whole lobster served with mushroom, capsicum and masala sauce, $49.99).

There are plenty of vegetarian options on offer as well, including dahl makhani Punjabi (slow-cooked lentil curry, $20.99), saag paneer Punjabi ($21.99), and brinjal mirchi ka salan (baby eggplant and green banana chillies with a paste of peanut butter, sesame and coconut, $23.99). The usual selection of naan breads and accompaniments are also available, plus a fantastic range of craft beers, both bottled and on tap.

The venue has seen a few different restaurants come and go over the years, and as a result the space has a more open and airy feel than many Indian restaurants. With capacity to host up to 150 people, it is also well suited for functions.