Don't Tell Aunty

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Surry Hills' creatively charged culinary hot-spot, the 'unauthentic Indian' restaurant Don't Tell Aunty, is one of the highlights of the Sydney Indian restaurant scene. Inspired by the welcoming homes of traditional (yet, slightly eclectic) Indian aunties — complete with blue velvet banquettes and bright pink walls — the food here does not stick to the rules. Instead, innovation is the hero, as the team sticks to its signature envelope-pushing approach.

An oft-changing menu trips all across India, with touches of Aussie and American influence peppered throughout. Street eats might include the likes of Colonel Tso's Indo-Chinese-style cauliflower with tomato and chilli; the 'Yoghurt Kebab', featuring a spiced yoghurt croquette in a vibrant beetroot ginger sauce; and the nachos-like papadi chaat. The tandoor is turning out dishes like charred salmon with spice and curry leaves, and there's a slew of crafty curries, including the short rib korma and a coconut cashew gravy. Head in for lunch, and you can snag a super affordable canteen-style selection of curries and street food.

Meanwhile, Rajat Parr — an international winemaker and sommelier — has worked his magic on the drinks offering. Watch retro Bollywood films flicker on the walls, while tucking into drops from the self-serve beer fridge, approachable wines from around the world, and lively cocktails like the namesake Don't Tell Aunty — a concoction of mezcal and beetroot rimmed with black lava salt.

There's even a bottomless brunch option available on weekends, serving up a tasting menu with unlimited wines and beers (bottomless margaritas cost an extra $20 per person). Head to Don't Tell Aunty for something different, but altogether fun and delicious.