Temple of Spices, Mermaid Beach: When we asked our social media followers to recommend the best Indian restaurant on the Gold Coast, it was clear that Temple of Spices is the go-to for many. If you haven’t yet discovered Temple of Spices in Mermaid Beach (hidden in plain sight on the Gold Coast Highway), you’re in for a treat. The unassuming gem is packed with personality, dishing up a flavour-packed menu dotted with both street-style eats and contemporary cuisine. If you’re vegan, you’re in the right place – there’s an entire plant-based menu that is mostly gluten-free.

Agnee Indian, Robina: Bringing together the rich, meaty kormas from the north and the lighter, spicier dishes from the south, Agnee Indian in Robina is the best of both culinary worlds. With a passion for the time-honoured traditions of mother India, the chefs work their magic by combining fresh, locally sourced produce with exotic, fragrant spices to ensure authenticity in flavour.

Saffron Indian Gourmet, Broadbeach: A far cry from slap-dash takeaway joints of days past, Saffron in Broadbeach has upped the ante to deliver gourmet Indian food in a beautiful setting. Every dish that graces the menu is made the authentic way – no shortcuts, and everything is fresh and made to order. The ever-changing menu offers a mix of traditional and experimental dishes, so there’s always something new to try.

Krish Indian, Robina, Worongary and Varsity Lakes: Krish Indian is one of the Gold Coast’s favourite Indian spots and has the awards to prove it. Locals travel from near and far to enjoy Krish’s classic lamb korma, butter chicken, chicken tikka and veggie samosas. If you’ve got quite the appetite, why not try your hand at the all-you-can-eat buffet that happens every Wednesday night in Robina and Worongary and every Friday in Varsity Lakes?

Ginger Indian Gourmet, Oxenford: This is one of the best-kept secrets on the northern end of the Gold Coast (sorry, local folk!). Ginger puts a modern sway on traditional Indian cuisine, offering a unique dining experience with dishes like tiger prawns tossed in tawa, and tasty barramundi in Malabar coconut and lemon gravy. You’ll also find familiar favourites like tender curries (scooped up with spiced-lamb naan bread) and a delectable series of colourful vegetarian dishes.

Koh-I-Nur Indian Cuisine, Palm Beach: When Palmy locals are on the hunt for the best Indian restaurant down their end of town, they will likely end up on Koh-I-Nur’s unassuming doorstep. If you’re keen to spice up your life, let the chefs know, and they will happily oblige. Otherwise, settle in for a well-priced meal bursting with succulent meats (or vegan options if that’s your jam), rich flavours and very friendly service.

Randhawa’s Indian Cuisine, Emerald Lakes and Hope Island: If you’re seeking an Indian cuisine that focuses on authenticity and elegance, then book a table at one of Randhawa’s popular haunts. Every dish is meticulously prepared from scratch, offering a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian entrees and mains like mushroom matar masala, Bombay potatoes, Kadai chicken and the special Randhawa’s prawn and pepper curry. If you plan on frequenting the restaurants (we don’t blame you), it’s worth signing up to the VIP club to gain discounts on every dish.

India Garden, Robina: Can you keep a secret? We can’t, which is why we have to let you know about India Garden. This Robina gem can’t be beaten on value for money – but don’t think that means the food’s quality is compromised. The curries, chutneys and bread here are made with tender love and care, boasting oodles of authentic flavour.

Garlic Clove, Ormeau: Garlic Clove’s head chef and owner Sabir Merchant prides himself on his restaurant’s exquisite homemade curries and ability to remember his regulars’ names – and it’s this warmth and attention to detail that keeps people coming back for more. Feast on traditional favourites, tandoor, biryani and specialty naan that is perfect for sopping up the extra sauce on your plate.

Gill’s Indian Cuisine, Upper Coomera, Ormeau and Pimpama: This is modern Indian with an extra splash of flair – don’t worry, you’ll find all the classics like tikkas and kormas, but there are plenty of left-of-centre dishes for those that giving their taste buds something to think about. The menu is separated into chicken, beef, goat and vegetarian, with plenty of naan varieties to compliment every dish.

Indian Empire, Runaway Bay: You’ll often find this northern dining hub heaving with hungry locals – it’s certainly got a reputation for igniting the fire within. The menu is dotted with traditional curries (hello, saagwala) and vegetarian and seafood specialties. The naan menu here is next level, while the Indian-style desserts will be hard to pass up.

Honourable mentions: There’s no shortage of great Indian on the Gold Coast. Once you’ve made your way through this list, check out Indian Delights in Miami for a suburban feast, Chabbiz Tandoor Kitchen in Southport for some homemade delights or Tikka n Tandoor in Coomera if you’re after some more vegan options.

Got a tip on your favourite Indian spot? Email it to [email protected]

Image credits: Header Image – Rajat sarki on Unsplash. body image 1 – Ginger Indian, body image 2 – Andy Hay on Unsplash.