Masala Theory

Overview

If you want to awaken all of your senses at once, you need to pay a visit to Sydney's Masala Theory. Expect to be treated to a plethora of neo-Indian snacks and dishes, putting a fun spin on authentic Indian food while embracing the best Indian cuisine has to offer.

The concept of the joint was conceived by Owner Yashpal Erda after he was inspired to make his mark on the representation of Indian cuisine in Australia. Ever since, Masala Theory's semi-traditional offerings have aimed to challenge those preconceptions.

You'll find this inventive eatery tucked away into a crevice of Crown Street, just past Giuls and Kürtosh. Seating 60, the eclectic venue is adorned with bright interiors, sprays of colour, hand-painted imagery artworks and our personal favourite, a motorbike with neon lights mounted along one of the walls.

Start your meal with a bang and dig straight into the renowned curry bombs — thin crispy balls of pastry with the filling of your choice, to which you'll add the curry sauce. These bit-esized morsels are the restaurant's signature dish and a must-try.

You can also kick off your night with the theca paneer tikka for a delicious textural journey, the chicken lukhmi for a flavour hit or the Three Sisters chaat for a challenge — and a snap for IG.

For something different, try the cheesy masala pavs — masala-buttered sliders with curried chickpea and cheddar cheese. But if snacking on miniature burgers at an Indian restaurant goes against your rules (fair), then opt for the dhungar chicken tikka masala — smoked chicken coated in a creamy masala sauce.

The gol hatti chole and tikki — a potato patty accompanied by green curried chickpeas, chiffonade poppadum and pickled mango — is a must-try and completely meat-free.

Plus, the dessert selection does not disappoint. Opt for the deconstructed motichoor ladoo for a semi-traditional dessert, or try the gulabi panna cotta for an inventive treat. This experimental menu item boasts Indian rose cream, vanilla pollen and strawberry jelly. Strawberry milk fans, this one is for you in particular.

Want to make your meal extra special? Try out Masala Theory's Ride & Dine taxi offering. Here you'll experience a one-hour ride around the city in a decorated Delhi-style taxi before enjoying the restaurant's culinary offerings. It's a real joy for tourists and Sydneysiders alike.

Images: Cassandra Hannagan