Foreign Return Restaurant & Bar

Overview

With such a special Sydney location, Surry Hill's Foreign Return is an Indian dining experience like no other. The team at Foreign Return pride themselves on not taking things too seriously. From the buzz of Crown Street at its doorstep to the charming Taj Mahal mural in the main dining area, this is the kind of place that shouts optimism and fun, rather than solemn and earnest dining. 

Founded by seasoned restaurateur Javed Khan of Delhi 'O' Delhi fame, along with hospo mainstays Gaurang Gahoi ('GG') and Kunal Patel, Foreign Return will challenge the Australian idea of Indian cuisine – lamb rogan josh get the day off in favour of regional and forgotten dishes. Head chef Tanvi Goswani, whose passion is fusing Indian flavours with other cuisines from around the world, brings the menu to life with bold flavours and traditional cooking methods. 

The tandoor and grill produce delights such as minced goat kebabs from Lucknow, cooked with ground spices, saffron and onion, while vegetarians can feast on khichdi, a lost recipe from the eighth and ninth centuries, made of black rice, lentils and fresh herbs. Another standout is the vari kokaru curry, a recipe from an ancient East Indian tribe, consisting of lamb shanks, home-made masala and fresh coriander. 

Foreign Return is more than just fabulous food, accentuating the fun with a vibrant and eclectic drinks list. Cocktails include the Marigold Sour, a twist on a classic gin sour and dedicated to Asia's biggest flower market, the Mullik Ghat in Kolkata. Elsewhere there is the Curry Colada, a mix of rum, curry leaves, coconut, pineapple and lime. It's the perfect pairing to balance the spiced Tangra colony chilli prawns. 

Foreign Return offers an a la carte menu, bottomless brunch, pre-theatre dining and an all-vegan fare. For a night of fun and frivolity, you'll struggle to find a better Indian restaurant in Sydney.

Top images: Leigh Griffiths