Member Review by aduki Magazine

Gujju’s is one of the latest additions to Melbourne’s growing number of vegetarian eateries. The small and cosy restaurant has an air of authenticity with just the slightest hint of incense greeting you at the door. Traditional Indian music plays softly and colourful fabric is draped carefully from the roof. The walls contain pictures and dancing sticks from the Gujurati tradition, a state located on the Western Coast of India and the birthplace of Ghandi. Arriving during the ten-day Kathwadi Festival, the menu had been tossed aside in favour of authentic thali meals. Thali consists of a plate with various curries, rice, bread, chutney, pickle and dumplings. For $14.90 we were treated to all you can eat. The standard menu has many vegan options but the thali was limited and extremely spicy. Traditionally thali is served with a dairy lassi drink and condiments such as yoghurt raita to help cool the mouth. My vegetarian dining partner raved about the chickpea flour curry (which contained yoghurt). The potato and vegetable curry was flavoursome and aromatic and the range of pickles and chutneys were well-balanced and fresh. Lentil flour and fenugreek dumplings were served, similar to a falafel but with a smoother, fluffier texture and lighter in colour. The staff are incredibly attentive and helpful and happy to check with the kitchen to ensure the ingredients of a dish. They happily bring breads without butter and make
adjustments where possible. Seating is limited to fewer than 30, so it is advisable to make a booking.