Daughter In Law Is Chef Jessi Singh's Latest Rule-Breaking Indian Eatery

You might say renowned chef Jessi Singh is keeping it in the family for his latest Aussie restaurant. Having returned from a lengthy stint in the US running his two Babu Ji outposts, Singh launched his inauthentic Indian eatery Don't Tell Aunty in Surry Hills last year. Now, he's opening the doors to Daughter In Law: a no-frills Australian-Indian bar and grill that strays equally far from tradition.

Authenticity might not be on the cards, but bold flavours certainly are, across an ever-changing menu of contemporary creations. Soak up a soundtrack of 70s Bollywood tunes, while digging into the likes of scallop ceviche, Indian-inspired naan pizza, papadum platters and prime cuts of meat hot from the tandoor.

Don't Tell Aunty, Sydney.

The self-serve bar fridge that first got a look-in at Singh's original Horn Please is making a comeback, to be stocked with a hefty selection of local craft brews. Meanwhile, star sommelier Sacha Imrie (Marion Wine Bar, Builders Arms Hotel) has put together a wine offering that heroes new-world drinks, featuring a strong selection of Californian labels available nowhere else in Australia.

Expect to see Singh's penchant for colour here, too, with deep green banquettes, ocean blue booths and soft pink walls, matched to an equally vibrant cocktail selection. You'll be able to round out a feed with clever concoctions like the spicy jalapeño margarita or a booze-infused mango lassi. During the day, you'll also find a $15 thali at lunchtime as well as a daily happy hour running from 4–6pm.

Find Daughter In Law at 19 at 37–41 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne from Wednesday, June 19. 

Images: Griffin Simm