The Colonial British Indian Cuisine Balmain
The Colonial British Indian Cuisine Balmain
Someone from this business manages this listing.
Learn More
+61 2 9818 3272+ Add websiteImprove this listing
Hours
Tue
5:00 pm - 9:30 pm
Wed
5:00 pm - 9:30 pm
Thu
5:00 pm - 9:30 pm
Fri
5:00 pm - 9:30 pm
Sat
5:00 pm - 9:30 pm
Reserve a table

What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Latest updates
Details
Someone from this business manages this listing.
Learn More
CUISINES
Indian, British
Special Diets
Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
meals, features
Is this an Indian restaurant?
Details
About
Experience the vibrant world of British-Indian food at The Colonial. Specialising in Colonial Indian cuisine, you’ll find authentic offerings rich in flavour on our extensive menu. Sample long forgotten dishes like spicy grilled and marinated goat, fish fillets coated in chickpea flour and fried till golden, slow cooked black lentils, the ever famous Butter Chicken, fragrant biryani and more. Paired with flatbreads, sides and desserts, enjoy a delectable feast that will nourish all your senses. Join us for dinner 7 days a week, from 5 pm to 10pm.
CUISINES
Indian, British
Special Diets
Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
Meals
Dinner, Drinks
FEATURES
Delivery, Takeout, Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Serves Alcohol, Table Service
Top 3 reasons to eat here
Sponsored by: The Colonial British Indian Cuisine Balmain
1. Best Butter Chicken in Sydney!
"The service and food here are fantastic."
950kellig
2. Best service, delicious food
"It's amazing service, delightful atmosphere and tremendous prices."
Cadickson44
3. The service and food here
"The service and food here are fantastic."
950kellig
Contribute
We perform checks on reviews.
Tripadvisor’s approach to reviews
Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines, the review is not published.
When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site.
Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines.
Learn more about our review moderation.
4.5
58 reviews
Excellent
43
Very good
10
Average
0
Poor
3
Terrible
2
Susan S
1 contribution
May 2023 • couples
Fantastic service, great food. It was a chilly night but the staff put the heaters on and closed the doors to make us nice and cosy while we enjoyed great British Indian dishes with a pulled pint of kingfisher on tap. Perfect
Written 11 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The Colonial Restaurants
It's wonderful to know that you enjoyed our great British Indian dishes. Your kind words are greatly appreciated, and we hope to have the pleasure of serving you again soon for another memorable dining experience.
Written 9 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Joanna
Eastwood1 contribution
June 2020 • family
We shared the vegetable jalfrezi and a couple of sides. Delicious! The service was very friendly and our waiter offered to adjust the meal for my daughter who he could see was struggling with the heat of the dish. Just perfect. Looking forward to trying more of the many vegetarian options on the menu.
Written 1 June 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The Colonial Restaurants
Hey there! We're glad to see you enjoying our food and service. We hope to see more orders from you so that we can provide you with exceptional taste and top-class service everytime!
Written 26 December 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kelli G
New South Wales4 contributions
Nov 2020 • none
The service and food here are fantastic. We ordered the onion Bhaji & prawn pepper fry to start followed by goat curry and chicken Lababdar with garlic naan. Really tasty food and prompt service. The aircon inside also helped as it was 40+ outside.
Written 27 November 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The Colonial Restaurants
Hey there! We're glad to see you enjoying our food and service. We hope to see more orders from you so that we can provide you with exceptional taste and top-class service everytime!
Written 26 December 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Brigitte B
6 contributions
Feb 2020 • couples
My partner and I had dinner here tonight and we got offered papadams and sauces (thinking it was free) and it cost $13 for only 3 papadams!! We would never of said yes if we knew this. They were also very pushy about ordering more drinks, dessert and naan... The food was okay and did come out fast but not the best I've had, the butter chicken was too tomatoey. The waiters kept asking how the food was about 4-5 times, a bit over the top. Will not be back as feel as though they tried to stitch us up. $72 for 2 curries and 1 rice, 1 naan (no drinks or dessert is very expensive)
Written 13 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tourist797487
Hi Brigitte,
We apologise for your experience last night, clearly we could not meet your expectations.
We are glad you enjoyed the food overall, to add, we did check with you for pappadoms and the dips (Raita, chutney, mint sauce) and when you agreed, it was brought to the table and as they are part of our menu, they are not complimentary.
In regards to your feedback on food in this review, we would have appreciated when our team person did check on you for food as you have mentioned, that way we could have fixed the food to your taste expectations.
We have no intention to stitch anyone up, we are here to serve you the best of food and service.
We hope you will give us another chance to serve you.
Regards
Team NJC
Written 15 February 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Shyam
Sydney3 contributions
Jan 2023 • family
Visited this restaurant to grab some Indian food for the first time in the city. I was really impressed with the variety of dishes they got. I am also amazed by there vegan options too. Overall a great dining express. Good luck to the team
Written 3 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The Colonial Restaurants
Hey there, Shyam! We're glad to see you enjoying our food and service. We hope to see more orders from you so that we can provide you with exceptional taste and top-class service everytime!
Written 13 January 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Brandon s
11 contributions
Feb 2024 • friends
Good food, Great atmosphere. good cultural exchange. same food in Darlinghurst and Neutral bay. Good value Authentic British Style Indian Spiced based curries.
Written 18 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sam Mehanna
Thank you for your feedback! We're glad you enjoyed the good food, great atmosphere, and cultural exchange. It's fantastic to hear you found our Authentic British Style Indian Spiced based curries to be of good value. We hope to see you again soon!
Written 29 April 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Debbie A
5 contributions
Jan 2024 • friends
The best Indian out of the UK.
Full of flavour and the best curry I’ve I ever had had.
We were a group of five, all from England and all agreed you can’t get any better than this.
Written 12 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sam Mehanna
We're delighted you enjoyed our flavorful curry, hailed as the best ever! It means a lot coming from fellow Brits. Thank you for your glowing review and we hope to see you again soon!
Written 29 April 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Winnie E
Sydney193 contributions
Apr 2023 • family
My family and I are Indian restaurant regulars and love trying new places. The colonial is up there with the best of them. Please support this amazing restaurant with a menu that caters to all! Lots of vegan options too!
Written 16 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The Colonial Restaurants
Thank you for your kind words and for considering us as one of the best Indian restaurants you've tried. Your support means a lot to us, and we appreciate your encouragement. We look forward to welcoming you and your family back soon to continue exploring our delicious offerings.
Written 9 June 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kim
Sydney3 contributions
Mar 2023 • couples
Shyam and Kajala had a good knowledge of the menu and gave friendly, lovely service.
Fabulous food as always
Written 26 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sam Mehanna
Hey there, Kim! We're glad to see you enjoying our food and service. We hope to see more orders from you so that we can provide you with exceptional taste and top-class service everytime!
Written 3 April 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Paul B
5 contributions
Feb 2023 • couples
Lovely food and experience outside enjoying the sunshine. Dolly is a great host and the rest of the team was good too!
Written 2 February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The Colonial Restaurants
Hey there, Paul! We're glad to see you enjoying our food and service. We hope to see more orders from you so that we can provide you with exceptional taste and top-class service everytime!
Written 5 February 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ryan_From_Sydney
Sydney5 contributions
Jan 2023 • couples
Lovely restaurant with delicious food at a good price!
Had the butter chicken and beef Bombey with cheesy naan. Would definitely recommend.
Written 27 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The Colonial Restaurants
Hey there, Ryan! We're glad to see you enjoying our food and service. We hope to see more orders from you so that we can provide you with exceptional taste and top-class service everytime!
Written 5 February 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
PeterY2013
Sydney65 contributions
Jan 2023 • none
Once again, an awesome meal. The Beef Bombay (?) was excellent, as was the mango chicken. The service was good. And how can you fault a restaurant that serves Kingfisher draught in pints?
Written 3 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The Colonial Restaurants
Hey there, Peter! We're glad to see you enjoying our food and service. We hope to see more orders from you so that we can provide you with exceptional taste and top-class service everytime!
Written 13 January 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Manav P
1 contribution
Oct 2022 • none
very delicious food, butter chicken, curry, everything was hygienic and good. Staff was also nice. Perfect place to come with family or friends
Written 19 October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The Colonial Restaurants
Hey there! We're glad to see you enjoying our food and service. We hope to see more orders from you so that we can provide you with exceptional taste and top-class service everytime!
Written 26 December 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Rhythm Bansal
2 contributions
Oct 2022 • friends
The Colonial Restaurants have the most exquisite British Indian cuisine that can make anyone drool🤤. Their Railway Goat Curry is an all time favourite, the chef never misses out!! I had a great time there with my friends and we're definitely going to visit this fine dining restaurant on numerous occasions.
Written 1 October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The Colonial Restaurants
Hey there! We're glad to see you enjoying our food and service. We hope to see more orders from you so that we can provide you with exceptional taste and top-class service everytime!
Written 26 December 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Arpita Sharma
1 contribution
Sept 2022 • family
From the Food to the staff, everything was perfect..
It’s one of the perfect places where you can go with your families!
Had the Best time 🥂
Written 19 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The Colonial Restaurants
Hey there, Arpita! We're glad to see you enjoying our food and service. We hope to see more orders from you so that we can provide you with exceptional taste and top-class service everytime! 💜
Written 23 November 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Showing results 1-15 of 57
Best moderately priced restaurants
See all
Best nearby
We rank these hotels, restaurants, and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
Balmain
Take the ferry to the inner west suburb of Balmain and be enchanted with this picturesque and eclectic waterside area. A stroll down Darling Street will take you on a tour of coffee shops, boutique delicatessens and shops offering wholefood products and organic cuisines. Yoga studios abound, and live music emanates from the hotels at night. As the place where the Australian Labor Party formed in 1891, Balmain has commonly been known for its “working class culture”. It has evolved into a health-conscious heaven with a laid back attitude, offering one of the most vibrant food and bar scenes in Sydney.
Best nearby hotels
See all Best nearby restaurants
See all Is This Your Listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim Your Free Listing