If you like Indian food, Masala Theory is a must visit!!! They call themselves neo-Indian and definitely live up to the name. Also, super awesome vibes and decor.
The Vegetarian Curry Bombs is their signature dish and a MUST HAVE! I also loved The Original Indian Burger / Vada Pav - low spice for spice intolerant people like me! I also had the Moilee Curry Paneer with String Hoppers/Idiyappam - VERY rich coconut curry, but not my favourite.
What else should you try?
➡️ Try their signature dessert which is the Deconstructed Motidhoor Ladoo
➡️ Try their unique drinks menu - the Pina Colada cocktail was super creamy!
This was our first Indian restaurant we had visited together. Kind friendly greeting as we were seated to our table. We went on a weekday so it wasn’t too packed but I’ve heard if you do plan on going on a weekend that you should book a table. We ordered just the curry bombs for starters and then butter chicken with naan for mains. The curry bombs were exceptional! Definitely my favourite starters I’ve had in a long time. The butter chicken was creamy and the naan was beautiful and soft. Our experience at Masala Theory was amazing and I highly recommend it to anyone.
I did tried quite a lot of Indian restaurant in my life in difficult countries, n I did have Indian friends that could take me to some really authentic restaurant. But this restaurant really amazed me, it’s like a hidden gem in Surry hill, that interesting n edge interior is welcoming. The food is very modern for Indian cuisine, I love the way that they can manage to make it mild (because I don’t eat spicy) n the bar tender customised a coffee whisky for us. Price is reasonably good. I’ll say, you better go n have a try n then u will know what I’m talking abt.
I am a big fan of Curry bombs at Masala theory. I have become a regular visitor to this place now.
Ambience is super awesome and food is delicious 😋
Pricey but the quality is simply the best. Must try Indian restaurant in Sydney.
Feel Da Curry Bomb 💣 with one mighty bite !!! .@masalatheory knows how to play with neo Indian cuisine. Poutine fries Indian style! A massive YES from me! Love the‘Rajbhog Thali’- varieties curries, desser and rice all served in one royal round platter. They do interesting and tasty cocktails as well!
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The vegetarian curry bombs from @masalatheory are da bomb. A burst of curryful flavours as you pop them into your mouth.
Their take on the Bunny Chow was so so but the moilee fish curry with string hoppers and jalebi with mascarpone and spiced maple syrup(could have done without the maple syrup) was delicious.
So how did @masalatheory take on the Bunny Chow do? There were clearly some major differences. Firstly there was too much curry, especially since the plate that the Bunny Chow came in was full of the curry sauce at the bottom. This made the bread soggy and mushy all round. Secondly, the hallowed out piece of bread was missing. That always is served on the top part of the loaf after it is filled with curry. The chicken curry filling was good though but that does not complete the whole Bunny Chow experience.
Overall, this is a great place for dinner anytime of the week.
#brunch #lunch #nyeats #hkeats #londonfoodie #hkfoodie #sydneyfoodie #lafoodie #sgfoodie #melbournefoodie #adelaidefoodie #instafood #torontoeats #pertheats #brisbanefoodie #melbourneeats #japanesefoodie #asianfood #southafricanfoodies #sydneyrestaurant #bunnychow #jalebi #currybombs
One word for this place AMAZINGGGG.. . From the exterior to interior to food and staff everything is so on point... Loved it.
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We went their on Saturday afternoon which was comparatively quieter then the evening. The staff was very friendly who helped us decide what is their speciality.
What we ordered:
Masala fish
Bhel Puri
Rajbhog thali
The best part was it had desi Indian flavour with western touch. quantity was pretty decent for the price you pay.
PS: it's better to make booking before you visit during the weekends evening time.
An absolutely phenomenal dining experience! The presentation and quality of the dishes is second to none, it's been some of the most flavoursome and definitely creative Indian we've had in Sydney. If you are after a dining experience that offers a great atmosphere, exceptional service and amazing food then Masala Theory is the place for you. Highly recommended!
Best Indian food that I have had in a long time. Amazing service, eye catching decor and beautiful food. The Bunny Chow was spectacular with a good kick to it. The Lassi’s were refreshing and had a wonderful flavour to them. The dessert was one of the best I have had. If you haven’t been here yet, you should definitely go and experience this awesome restaurant.
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I had the absolute pleasure of dining at Masala Theory 🇮🇳👳🏾♂️ and my god, it was for lack of a better word SENSATIONAL! 💯💯the entire decor was so rustic, so Surry Hills Terrace but also like an Indian dhaba. It was eccentric and quirky and the entire experience from start to end was so unique and amazing.
We started with the following drinks:
Popcorn Lassi 🥛
Imli Punch 👊🏽 Rose Mojito 🥀
And had the following Entree’s:
Prawntini Bhel 🍤
Curry Bombs 💣
And the mains we ordered were:
Bunny Chow 🍞
Moilee curry fish with string hopper 🍛
Mango smoked tandoori lamb chops 🍗
The intensity of all the flavours, from the drinks to the bhel, it was all so unique and absolutely tantalising. It was hard to take photo’s because the food was so aromatic and fragrant 😍 Our mouths were watering as we tried to get optimal angles 😂 Also, is this not the most aesthetic Indian food ever? I can’t recommend this place enough if you’re looking for Indian Food with a twist. The service is delightful and everyone is so humble and friendly.
Thank you for an amazing time Masala Theory!
Masala Theory definitely brings their A-game and delivers one of the best Indian food I’ve tasted.
I love the decor and ambience throughout the restaurant. It certainly brought a wow factor for me upon entering the dining room.
Dishes I love:
- Rajbhog Thali
A set royal round platter of curries, appetisers, rice, dessert, naan bread and raita)
- Garlic butter Tandoori prawns & moilee splash (GF).
- Chicken Masala
- Indianised spring rolls
- Bhel puri
- Butter chicken (one of the best butter chicken I’ve tasted!)
Everything cooked perfectly and brought wonderful combination of flavours.
Love their mocktails too!
Highly recommend.
Absolutely amazing Indian food heaven. Been thinking to come here for a while and yesterday finally made a visit. Everything here is just superbly delicious, and presented perfect! The staff is very nice and courteous! They have blend of right spices in each dish, we ordered samosa chat for starters and it definitely was soo good.
The chicken we ordered in main was so fresh and just perfect to make our evening a wonderful one!
Bianca: I ADORE Indian food! I love it but rarely eat it. Mainly due to my delicate baby stomach but when we received an invitation to dine at Masala it was a no brainer. I’d read many reviews and new I was in for a bit of a treat. If you’re expecting your run of the mill, bog standard Indian restaurant, you’re REALLY in for a treat! It’s bright, colourful and fun and we haven’t even gotten on to the food yet.
Thanks to the staff of Masala Theory for making my husband's birthday memorable! I'm not exaggerating if I say that it's the best Indian restaurant in Surry Hills. Food was absolutely phenomenal and service was superb! Ambience is very homely and love the tunes (Ok, they have the Game of Thrones theme in the playlist - what's not to like?). If you guys haven't been to this place, definitely check it out!
This venue located in the heart of Surry Hills is serving up of the most stunning and flavoursome Neo Indian cuisine imaginable!
@masalatheory have a new menu out which is sure to have to sorted wether your out for a casual lunch or a formal dinner. You can’t go wrong here!
All hail Masala Theory - a neo Indian food affair in Surry Hills!
Looking for authentic with a modern twist? Look no further than Masala Theory.
Favourite dishes of the night were the Deconstructed Samosa Garbanzo Chaat ($16), Curry Bombs ($15), Loyola Curry Prawn ($28) and Motichoor Laddoo ($16).
Deconstructed samosa had all the great flavours of a samosa but presented in a fun and quirky way. Curry bombs made for a great entrée - not too spicy but really flavoursome and easy to share with company. Loyola Curry Prawn was colourful and there was a generous amount of prawns. Good amount of spice and went well with the bread. Motichoor Laddoo looked gorgeous served in a glass with cinnamon ice cream on a crumble. A unique dessert with a lovely subtle taste.
If you'd like to read more of my reviews, please check out my zomato page and visit @cynthiaeats_ on Instagram for more photos!
My thanks to Yashpal, owner of Masala Theory, for the invite.
Absolutely fantastic Indian restaurant. Been meaning to come here for a while and just went all out when I had the chance! Everything was incredibly delicious, and also presented beautifully.
Some fairly unique dishes you won’t anywhere else. The bunny chow and the curry bombs to name a couple. If nothing else, come here for these, you won’t be disappointed.
We were invited to dine by Masala Theory, but thoughts are my own and I’d happily come back as a paying customer.
We did the feed me menu and couldn't finish the food. There was so much I got a bit carried away. The wine selection was prefect to go with the meals. The cobra beer with my curries was a winner for me. The staff was so polite and welcoming. The decor inside is also pretty with signatures of celebrities. Overall a great venue for a date night or a function.
Tried the famous vada pav and it tasted great. Also had a few snack items like samosa chat and chana chat .. Amazing food with great service. A must go place❤️😍
First impression - pretty little lit friendly place. On entering you will be greeted with colors and quirky decor which is an instant mood uplifter. Food is good and prepared as the description in the menu (give your spice recommendation beforehand).
It was my first time having Indian food with a modern twist and it was amazing!! We got the curry bombs, deconstructed samosa and three sisters chat - they were all beautifully presented and it was absolutely delicious. Would definitely come and try everything else in the menu!
A fresh and new way of presenting Indian food to Sydney. Must visit place if you are looking for indian food with a twist! Nice lounge experience & fast service tops it! Have fun ( music is on point)
Staff was super super polite and friendly and the butter chicken was really good! Just a bit on the sweet side, I ordered another to take home.
Actual rating: 3.5
A funky restaurant in Surry Hills that serves Indian food with a modern twist.
This is one of the few places that doesn't force you on to a banquet menu which was a BIG plus. Highlights were the 3 sisters chaat (fried, battered spinach with a thick tamarind sauce), the egfplant bharta (a smoky dip, perfect for the naan) and the salli boti (delicious goat curry with punchy flavours). We ordered the bunny chow, more for the novelty of its name but weren't that impressed. While I liked the idea of an edible treasure box filled with curry, there was simply too much bread and not enough filling. The pistachio rosewater lassi was a hit, as was the mango lassi.
The dining area with its hot pink colour scheme caters well to large groups and service didn't miss a beat with our party of 17. Would recommend for a fun night out in Surry Hills.
Came here on a Tuesday evening at around 6pm, it was a little busy at the time.
Been wanting to come here because I have been curious about Neo-Indian cuisine. My interpretation of this concept is that it is Indian cuisine that has adapted to new modern ways of preparing food...
Love the funky decor of this restaurant, it is filled with lots of colour, ornaments and Indian culture across the walls and ceiling.
We had the Basil Chicken Tikka, the Chicken Pot Rice, and and Cheese Chilli Coriander Naan. The Tikka was nice, the Pot Rice was a bit dry, the naan was nice too. For dessert we had the Rose Pannacotta which was divine.
Would love to come here again to try the curry.
Masala Theory, Surrey Hills, Sydney, cuisine - whacky indian! Well that’s what I can call a restaurant that serves deconstructed samosa chat, reconstructed motichoor laddo desert and curry bombs!!! What a superbly intelligent menu with flavours to match! Could have had more vegetarian options. The decor is modern, inspired and colourful - that’s my excuse for the photos - lighting wasn’t helping. Must try if you are in the Sydney area. @masalatheory #rating4 #travelblogger #foodblogger #instablogger #sydneydiaries #roadtrip #foodie #melbournefoodie #vegbourne #vegetarianblogger #currybombs #modernindian #iloveinnovation #foodielife #loveexploringnewplaces #melbournebesteats
Masala Theory lets you celebrate a feast of modern Indian flavours by tweaking some of the old time favourites. The restaurant is decorated with vibrant pictures on the walls that capture the eyes upon entry. If you like Indian food then you will find the small dishes fun and intriguing. Traditional curries can also be found here for those who are craving for the rich creamy goodness.
My friend and I thought of trying out this new Indian restaurant in Surry Hills, because... why not? We actually walked straight passed it, believe it or not, before checking our map, realizing we skipped it and walking back - my advice is to watch out for the sign hanging above. What we walked into was an ultra funky take on some really traditional aspects of Indian culture and life.
The first thing you'll notice with this restaurant is the ambience. Love the decor and all the writings on the wall and everywhere. With the food I expected a lot more and it wasntthst great. I know modern fusion but I just think they took it a bit too far and it wasn't as great as I expected. The best of the night was the vada pav.
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Masala Theory is easily my top pick for an Indian restaurant in Sydney. Top marks for service and decor. Never have I ever seen an Indian restaurant with a friendly service. The waiters are smiling and enjoying their job which shows in their service. The ambience is a fusion of tradition and new age funk. This neo indian restaurant will capture the essence of new age indian food yet keeps it authentic. The restaurant serves pan India variety of food with a twist. The menu hints at street food for entres and fine dine dishes for mains. Delighted to see an Indian restaurant not sticking to a regional cuisine which is the case in most restaurants in Sydney. We stuck to basic mains, indian bread and biryani. The aam Panna and rose lassi are a must try. The dhansak was lip smackingly beautiful with soft nan bread. This was topped with an option of 6 pickles to choose from. 6 different mouth watering pickles. Also, the quality and quantity of the biryani superseded all the expectations. The food ordered on other tables was as inviting as the chirping of birds in the woods to wake to a beautiful morning and have breakfast under a porch overlooking a lake. One and only minor disappointment was the Kalakhatta which was served in sprite with kalakhatta cordial. Overall, this restaurant definitely deserves a second visit sooner than later.
We have been to quite a few indian restaurants in Sydney and I can say by far this was best both in terms of food and customer service. It was one of our friend’s birthday and we were all in jolly mood and it was great to see that servers shared our mood and were more than happy to make the night a memorable one. Full marks on the service.
Coming to the food. We ordered quite a few things like Channa Jor Garam, Vada Pav, Salli Boti, Bunny Chow, Dhansak and all were yummy. Channa Jor Garam gave an authentic taste and Vada Pav was super tasty in its own modified form. Bunny Chow was dish of its kind with crunchy bread and tender chicken i loved it absolutely. Salli Boti was no less. Dhansak I didnt taste but my friends said it could be better but there was no complaint as such.
Ambience was just fine dim lit with neon light hanging cycle it gave it a different touch.
We all liked it and definitely will be back.
This neo-Indian restaurant is the epitome of funky. The food selections are quirky adaptations of classical Indian dishes. Do try their curry bombs, which have no description in the menu other than “surprise”, they’re awesome! For anyone Indian, they have THUMS UP ON THE MENU! The ambience is great, with bright walls and neon lighting setting a perfect mood for great conversation. It’s great for dates or work get togethers or even just a catch up with friends! The staff are so lovely and helpful and even when it’s super busy- they pay the upmost attention to every table. Only reason I haven’t given a 5 is that the food is a bit westernised in the sense that the spices aren’t as overpowering as an Indian would like.
First impact - Retro themed ambience ! Great place to "Experiment" food... Good to see a menu that is distinct from a regular restaurant and worth trying.. Taste could be improved !
The decor here is very colourful with lots of crazy stuff on the walls. And the lights are dim, but all together these things create a nice atmosphere which is cool, but not pretentious.
Had to try the Bunny Chow. I have only eaten this dish once outside of South Africa and it didn’t meet my expectations. Thankfully this place does it beautifully. They also offered pickles and chutneys which they bring and serve you at the table. That combined with the yogurt are the perfect accompaniments.
Service is very friendly and helpful.
This place does great curry. Simple as that. If you've not been you should try it as it's a different style from most Indian restaurants. Overall excellent
overall a good experience here!
will be back for the lamb ribs!
pity the goat curry and naan were a bit lacking otherwise it would have been a great meal.
ordered the hopper (nice & interesting), goat curry (feels like a osso bucco with spices rather than a curry), the lamb ribs (superb, definitely the best dish), naan & garlic naan (sadly felt like flat bread rather than naan, mango lassi (great way to complement the food) and tumeric ice cream (ok, not great - taste more like coconut)
Indian dining with a modern twist.
Accidentally ordered a banquet (unlimited main curry top up) for two people (a bad idea), but was thoroughly satisfied.
Food was fantastic and flavourful.
Service impeccable.
Village fish curry was THE dish. Rich and well balanced, fish cooked well.
Masala Theory is easily my current favourite Indian restaurant in Sydney. Even if the food was crap I would love it for the interior kaleidoscope of colours and modern Indian art. As luck would have it the food is as good as the walls.
Full review is now up on Spooning Australia.
Off the charts Indian, great atmosphere and friendly staff. Very pleased with my experience here. Plan on coming back next time I'm in the area.
What a great vibe at this restaurant. The service was fantastic and the waiter gave the perfect recommendation for newcomers. The servings were "just" right and we walked out feeling satisfied. We ordered the butter chicken with a side of Malabar Paratha (flaky Indian bread) and the three sisters as a starter. 🥘🍗 The flavours were balanced and was extremely authentic.
Ambience: 9/10
The vibe is great, interiors looks great and the restaurant fits in well (and stands out) in the area!
Service: 8/10
Staff were nice, however food is a bit slow to come out.
Food: 7/10
Whilst a limited menu is appreciated, the vegetarian options can be improved. Serving size is small for the price (generally higher across all dishes).
Overall the taste is above average.
Pro tip: get the vada pav, and chai at the end!
This is the first Indian restaurant that I had ever visited and it was definitely a wonderful experience! The service staff were extremely warm and friendly and the restaurant decor is very colourful and homely.
For our group of three, we ordered the butter chicken and Effie's Vegetable curry which were both really flavoursome and very good. This was accompanied with the Jeera rice (Basmati rice tempered with cumin seeds and whole spice; a must order!), butter naan bread and the cheese chilli coriander naan bread (also a must order!) Overall, I had a wonderful experience and I will definitely be back for the naan bread!
Food was nice and staff was really friendly - suggesting nice n tasty dishes!
Restaurant is cosy and with lots of colours - ideal for a dinner with friends!
Love the atmosphere of the restaurant, as soon as you walk in there, you can smell and feel India. The food was good, the butter chicken's sauce was very rich, served with their home made naan, probs was my favourite dish. The corn was also full of flavor, the pancake might be a bit bland but I love potatoes😂and the sauce on the side with it just lifted the dish. Overall, enjoyed the meal.
Went for Sunday lunch and it was fantastic. The staff were very friendly and helpful with all our questions. We had a mix of veg and non veg eaters and the restaurant catered for all of our needs. The food was very tasty and plenty of it. Thoroughly engorged our afternoon and will definitely be back.
A recent addition to the Surry Hills food scene, Masala Theory is a fantastic Indian eatery with flair and flavour. . As we stepped in, we immediately noticed how vibrant the space was. Each wall was decorated with murals or objects of Indian origin which captivated our attention throughout the evening.
Taking over the interesting space (a converted terrace house, I suppose) most recently occupied by Pork’d and before that by the famous Red Lantern is new kid on the block Masala Theory. While it’s a stone’s throw away from the cluster of Indian restaurants on Cleveland Street, the Maya empire, or the tasty Pakistani restaurant Lalqila, Yashpal and his team are aiming to do something different: bring a very contemporary version of Indian food to the table.
Once you enter the premise, you can tell that this is a comtemporary Indian restaurant not like others. Overall, I like my experience here. The food was excellent, and the waiter was very helpful and persuasive, in a good way!
We ordered Butter Chicken, Dhansak Chicken, Chilli and Corriander Naan, and the layered Indian bread. As what the menu says, you don't need any explanation for the Butter Chicken. That's the best! I like the mild texture. The naan we got was also lovely, just as what the waiter told us, we loved it. However, I'm not a big fan of Dhansak, but it tasted okay anyway.
Masala Theory is a new modern Indian restaurant on Crown Street in Surry Hills. With a funky modern fit out to match, the interior is bright and vibrant with plently of colour. With a touch of Bollywood and some flourescent light. The restaurant puts forward a modern twist on classic Indian flavours. Vegetarian options are also available.
Ever since our recent trip to London, we’ve been on the lookout for modern Indian restaurants which could live up to the high standards set by the Indian eateries we tried over there. We found that the main difference between London and Sydney Indian food was how they managed to balance the strong spices used in their cuisine without overpowering the senses, as we’ve generally found that Sydney Indian food often tastes too heavy for us.
The food was good, especially there were two traditional Parsi dishes, which you don't normally see in other Indian restaurants. The restaurant was fairly busy on a Sunday night, and the service was ok. But it was quite pricey, as each main costed us 25-30.
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We entered Masala Theory on a wet cold night in Surry Hills and it was like a ray of sunshine. The ambience screamed modern decor with a nod to some Indian heritage. This set the tone for the evening.
We opted for try the Regular Banquet so we could have a taster of the classic and not so classic Indian dishes. We were so glad to have chosen this menu as we weren't let down!
We began with a starter slate of Kalonji Chicken, Prawntini, and Keema Pav Slider. All three brought a different element and had varying heat levels too. The chicken was a juicy piece of thigh and was a mild way to start. The heat levels increased with the other two but they weren't mind blowingly spicy. The prawn was so delicious my friend said she would be happy to eat a whole bowl of them. It was enough to awaken you and salivate for more of this food.
The journey continued onto a plate of scrumptious curries. The Village Fish Curry was the highlight. Well cooked piece of fish in a moreish and light curry. With lemongrass and kaffir lime, they brought freshness to the dish and a great way to start the main course. Dhansak With Chicken, we had never tried this before and spice levels went up slightly but it was an enjoyable dish. Butter Chicken was excellent. A rich sauce that can be mopped up with the Naan and Roti breads that came with the meal. The last curry was a Salli Boti. A spicy goat curry that had melt in the mouth meat, it certainly was flavoursome and nothing I have had before. The fluffy basmati rice was great for soaking up the wonderful curries.
We substituted the usual Kulfi that came with this banquet with Chai Panna Cotta and Deconstructed Motichoor Laddoo. Neither was too sweet. The panna cotta had a nice texture to it and the chai was definitely prevalent in it. Loved the nut praline and cinnamon glass that came with it. The motichoor laddoo is a traditional Indian dish you will find anywhere in India but this was a modern take on it.
Give this restaurant a try as it brings a fresh take on Indian cuisine instead funky environment. Expect modern tunes in the background with Indian flair in the cooking.
Thank you to Yashpal and his team. They were both knowledgable and very hospitable. It made it a wonderful night.
On a cold Wednesday night, we ventured to Masala Theory in Surry Hills for some modern Indian eats to warm us up! Walking into the restaurant was like being transported to a vibrant, bustling and colourful setting, with Bollywood music in the background. The beautiful hand painted walls are complemented by quickly hanging objects like tiffin carriers and a bicycle, and famous dialogues from Bollywood movies.
Recently I got invited to try the newest restaurant craze in Surry Hills, Masala Theory. It has been a huge hit with locals as it has a unique and amazing menu. Masala Theory combines the best aspect of cultural dishes and the modern dinner setting to offer the best contemporary Indian dining experience in Sydney!
Coffeebrunchanddinner
+4.5
Forget everything you know about Indian restaurants in Sydney and step into something with a mix of flavors, fun and fluoro!
The fluoro refers to the neon pink bike which is a statement piece as you walk in the door. The decor is certainly part of the experience with every detail creating a vibrant dining atmosphere paired with upbeat music. The walls are filled with colour and every design is hand painted. The service is exactly what you would expect - friendly, prompt and always on hand.
We went with staff recommendations for food and they did not let us down. Our pick for entrees was the three sisters chat - crispy fried English spinach with chickpeas, yogurt and chutney. It is a light start to the meal and the presentation makes it a statement dish. The mains are not your standard butter chicken and the majority of the dishes are family recipes. This includes the goat curry and Dhansak. The Dhanksak has a Persian influence and is truly unique to any Indian dish I have tried in the past. The dish was aromatic and I could have sworn I smelt lavender with every bite! This is offered with chicken or as a vegetarian main.
You cannot have Indian food without Naan and at Masala Theory you need to order the cheese Naan. It is a step above that served at most other restaurants - just trust us!
Somehow we managed to fit in a dessert which completed an enjoyable night made not only by the food but also the overall experience. Put Masala Theory on your list of hot new places to try!
Most fulfilling experience in Sydney. The best Indian food so far. Three sisters chaat, masala dosa, baingan bharta and to drool for paan kulfi. Can't say enough! A MUST TRY!!
Masala Theory has only been opened 3 months, and you can see it’s getting more and more popular. A cozy spot in Surry Hills this is the perfect place for anything from a casual lunch or dinner to a family outing, friendly business meeting, or alternative to the been-there-done-that date. . Think hip. Think fresh. Think creative yet casual. Because that’s what neo-Indian food is all about – and Masala Theory believe these fun little dishes are truly the best food India has to offer!
Australia is blessed with abundance of authentic Asian cuisines thanks to its close tie with the region and migrants bringing motherland cuisines to their adopted home. Thai, Vietnamese and Japanese are amongst the most popular with the western palate. Indian curry, however, seems to be the least known and therefore often misunderstood. For some it is simply chunks of meat served in brown sauces with varying degrees of heat; the seemingly monotonous presentation, choice of ingredients and taste haven’t earned Indian cuisine the credibility it probably deserves.
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This is one of the coolest dining experiences I've had in Sydney in a while! Masala Theory takes all your assumptions about Indian food and tips them upside down.
Let's start with the venue. Tucked in a cute little white terrace house on Crown St in Surry Hills, this is a funky vibrant venue you're going to wish you knew about earlier! (Don't worry they've only been open 3 months so you're not too behind the curve!)
Inside is a kaleidoscope of colours and a grammable dream! Murals are splashed over the walls, there's a mish mash or ornaments and hanging lights, and a freaking hot pink neon bicycle on the wall! There's pumping tunes, the smell of fragrant incense and flavours in the air, and you know this place is going to be a blast.
We were lucky enough to be treated to a sample feast by the owner Yashpal, who's a complete legend and his passion for creating a unique food experience in Sydney whilst paying respect to his roots on inspiring.
Here's a little taste of what was served up:
Three Sisters Chat: crispy fried English spinach, garbanzo beans, black chickpeas, sweetened yoghurt, date tamarind chutney and mint chutney. A precariously placed tower and a fresh flavour explosion. (Also if you can't handle much spice like us the leftover sauce comes in handy for later)
Dal Chilla: split green lentil crepes, Indian cottage cheese, spinach, onion, raisins, cashews and tomato chutney. Great textures and fun flavours, the sauce is on the spicy side and warms you right up!
Keema Pav: lamb mince, onion, tomatoes, mint and Garam masala. Basically mini lamb sliders with a hot punch of flavour!
Salli boti: their signature dish of goat curry, black cardamom, cinnamon, onion tomato gravy, match stick potatoes. My first ever time trying goat and it did not disappoint! Deliciously tender meat, a rich curry sauce and the crispy potatoes on top made for a nice textural touch.
Dhansak: lentils, vegetables and brown rice. Nice to try a veggo dish for once, mild flavours.
Naan!! All of the naan! Cheese naan that was literally dripping with warm cheese, and crispy garlic naan perfect for sauce scooping!
We were literally about to burst but Yashpal insisted we have dessert and we were pretty easily convinced haha.
Chai panna cotta: with nut praline and cinnamon glass. Wow the texture on this was smooth perfection, and and the praline was a nice touch.
Deconstructed motichoor laddoo with saffron rabdi and dry fruits. I asked my friend I brought with me who is actually Indian to explain this and she's like it literally doesn't translate in English! So you'll just have to try it yourself!
Overall what a wonderful experience! An amazing vibe, excellent food, fantastic staff. Really can't fault it! There's nothing like it in Sydney, they are leading the charge of Indian hip dining. Check it out!
New kid on the block, Masala Theory is definitely bringing the heat with their south Indian fare. Standing out from the crowd on Crown Street, Masala Theory aims to take Indian restaurants and culture as you know it, and reinvent it to show the true colours of modern India. With vibrant interiors and modern twists on classical Indian dishes they’ll have you convinced in no time.
Hold on to your hats and possibly small children, because we are about to tell you something you probably don't want to hear. The Indian food we are all accustomed to, the food which we have been purchasing from our local restaurants for years has been nothing but a LIE! Okay well maybe that's a little too bold, but it most definitely does not taste like the authentic Indian flavours we witnessed at Masala Theory.
Sir And Mlady Dine Out
+4
It’s tough to stand out In an area like Surry Hills which is filled with good food, but that’s exactly what Masala Theory did. If the neon bicycle hanging inside the entrance didn’t catch your eye, the incredible modern Indian menu is sure to get your attention. The menu at Masala Theory features food from the North, South and West of India and aims to be as true to the traditional flavours as possible (just like you’d find on the streets or in someone’s kitchen) but presented in a modern way. The décor was warm and unique with contemporary Bollywood music, stressed murals on the wall which depicted traditional Indian art in a humorous way, and was bustling with people the whole time we were there. The staff were welcoming and we grabbed a seat and looked through the menu. Masala Theory is alcohol free, but BYO if you’d like a couple of drinks.
In Short: Masala Theory takes you on a trip through India with beautifully presented dishes. Our tip, gather a few buddies and try a sampling of the starters and mains.
I have just returned from a foodie jaunt down to Melbourne, and on the flight home I reflected on the 2 Indian restaurants I have visited in the last week. One here in Sydney, Masala Theory and another one that I will talk about in more depth in just a few days. What was common among these two restaurants, was how they were both focusing smashing through the stereotypes around Indian restaurants and cooking. The focus at Masala Theory like many contemporary restaurants is on produce and technique. Masala Theory aims to deliver regional favourites spanning from the heat of the south, to the seafood of the coastal regions and to the subtler spicing of the central and northern regions of India. All of this is done with level of refinement that’s hard to top in very few Indian restaurants I have visited.
Masala Theory is a new Indian restaurant located on Crown Street in Surry Hills. Masala Theory has a unique menu which is largely based on traditional Indian cuisine with a little bit of modern flair to keep things interesting. The venue itself reflects the ‘Neo-Indian’ theme, with a quirky character and design to match.
Masala Theory is newbie kid on the block in fusion Indian cuisine. I check it out with MW one Wednesday evening after work. . I have to admit that I'm no expert when it comes to Indian food. I am not particularly familiar with the different regions and how their food differs in India. As I chat to the staff at Masala Theory, I am told that with many dishes that there is a fusion between Persian and Indian influences which stem from the owner's mother. For FULL REVIEW AND PHOTOS go to the blog post
When it comes to Indian food if you had to subscribe to one thought, opinion or theory, consider subscribing to Masala Theory. What is Masala Theory? Simply put, imagine tasting the exotic mix of an ancient past and the contemporary present all in one mouthful; with an oompf of flavour, a pizazz of spice and an enchanting sprinkle of tradition. Welcome to Masala Theory.
Masala Theory is a new Indian Restaurant in Surry Hills, about a 15 minute walk from Central station. The restaurant’s front is an unassuming renovated terrace with weathered paint, not unlike the repurposed, colourful and well-lit houses along Wigram Street in Harris Park. My girlfriend and I were recently invited to try out their new menu.
Mar17- ordered the lunch special.it was really good .Like the decor and the music . It takes quite sometime like any indian restaurant so make sure you have enough time . The food wasn't really spicy for me .
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Masala Theory has breathed new life into the old Red Lantern space on Crown. Although subtle from the exterior, walk indoors and there's vivid colours at every corner, clever & quirky graphics against the walls integrated with the existing fittings - whilst it has a clear influence of indian tradition, its not your typical curry house down the road. Masala Theory are opting for something new and fresh, coined 'Neo Indian' by the owners, and this is clear once you turn pages of the menu.
The Beetroot Poriyal ($5.90) is a diced mixed of beetroot with curry leaves and spice, with mustard seeds prominent, and not overly sweet. The Prawtini Bhel ($15.90) is served in a martini glass as the name may suggest. Meaty, flavoursome prawns are served on a bed of puffed rice. I'm a sucker for chaat leaving my favourite the Three Sisters Chat ($14.90). Leaves of english spinach are battered and crisp, standing tall in the bean & chickpea bed much like it's namesake. Coated in yoghurt and a mix of mildly sweet chutneys - the Three Sisters chat is the reason i love a good chaat papri and I consider this dish in general it the indian version of nachos. Im a glutton and could easily enjoy several servings of this alone.
If opting for traditional drinks, its good to know the Kullad Chai ($4) is not served sweet as usual, allowing you add however much sugar you please once served. Panagam ($9) is a dairy free, tea-like cold drink, with sweetness levels off the charts thanks to the use of palm-derived sugar known as Jaggery. There is an intense spice element and its gingery with star anise and cardamom. If you're not used to these flavours be prepared to potentially dilute this one!
I'm always down for a tender goat curry and the Salli Botti ($26.90) doesn't disappoint. It's melt in your mouth tender, in a beautiful golden light curry, topped with thin crisp potato batons, somewhat reminiscent of french fries. I find the spice in the Salli Botti light for my palate but regardless of the spice content the tenderness of the goat overshadows. We mop up the liquid with the Masala Paratha ($6) and Garlic Naan ($5). Already full we take on the chef suggestion of Paan Kulfi ($12.90). If you've ever enjoyed Beeda after dinner this is the dessert for you. The Kulfi is highly textural, with the Paan leaves minced down and so, a little grainy and chewy in the creamy Kulfi. Perfect to end on.
There's a great little energy in the place, and its clear the team are excited about their new venture. Admittedly I am too.
It was really an incredible experience over here while I came with my family for dinner.Their friendly and great staff who are perfect for providing a satisfied customer service.If we talk about their food which we can consider as one of the best and authentic Indian flavour taste restaurant & not only about the taste If we see presentation of everything is perfectly design.Which I had never got at an restaurant in Sydney. I will recommend these restaurant for people who wanna try great food, for people who are trying first time Indian food with great smiling staff please visit here. Overall I will give 101 out of 100 to this restaurant for everything food, staff and service.
We had a fantastic experience and meal here!
We had the meat-entree banquet and 3 gin cocktails and all of it was impressive. Not only do they give their food a fusion twist they also do the basics very well.and it's all presented very nicely. On-top of the food the cocktails were awesome, unique and had a great Indian influence. Definitely will be going back
This restaurant has such a unique and mysterious character which stays in your memory forever! I love it!!!
First of all the food is extraordinary delicious! I would go and kiss the chef’s hand next time!
The presentation is fabulous! The deep house music in background intensifies the feelings and flavour! The decoration makes you feel like you have found the secret door to travel in your dreams to a colourful back street of a mysterious land of the greatest flavours!
Wow, the owner/manager, chef, and staff are smart and respectable. Thanks Masala Theory for your creativity and brilliant idea!
10 out of 5
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Gotta say they are serious about spices and they’re taking Indian cuisine to the new level.
Bored of usual Indian food? Don’t worry, me too. But good news is that we have @masalatheory that
will WOW us with their remarkable Neo Indian Menu. Masala Theory is tucked away in Surry Hills,
perfect spot for casual lunch and dinner where you get a slice of India on your plate. Before I talk
about what I have tasted at Masala Theory, I have to say I’m in love with their hip and vibrant interior.
So awesome, it elevates the whole Indian dining experience. Not only that, this restaurant is so
welcoming and you can feel the friendly and fun vibes from their crew.
Every dish on their menu comes with some fun unique twists, that makes them different from the
rest of the Indian restaurants. I really appreciate their effort and talents in the details, the use of
spices, colors and pairing their food with their NEW cocktail menu. Super excited with their
unbelievable stunning cocktails range that they created for this season. I am blown-away with every
dish that I have tasted, the spices and aromas definitely stimulate my taste buds. It tastes as good
as it looks.
Check out what we have tasted:
Mini Maska Buns - $11.9
Bunny Chow - $27.9
Moilee Curry Fish on String Hoppers - $29.9
Butter Chicken - $27.9
Curry Bombs with Ruby Murray Sauce - $16.9
Vegan Curry Bombs - $16.9Indian Green Curry with Veggie Koftas - $22..9
Salli Boti - $28.9
Tandoori Khazana Splash - $34.9
Kumbh Naan - $7
Garlic Naan - $5
Ras Malai Banoffee with Parle-G Crumble - $16
Drunk Gulab Jamun- $7per piece
Mumbai Margarita - $18
Hafus Kairi Panna - $14
Anaar Sling - $21
Gulabi Mojito - $18
If you can’t decide what to order, I highly recommend their Chef’s Tasting Banquets. With their tasting
banquet option, you get to taste all the signature dishes and they have veg/non-veg options so don’t
worry if you have dietary requirements.
Check out the photos...their food is just stunning!
Possibly The best Indian restaurant we’ve been to. Modern vibe, great service, spectacular food. Loved Loved Loved the food menu and drink menu is one of the kind. Dessert menu is great. To the point service and great staff, I am definitely coming back whenever in Sydney.
Trendy Indian restaurant with a retro vibe serving classic dishes with an innovative twist. The food and service are beyond our expectations. Very attentive staff patiently listen and offer suitable options. Unique Indian restaurant, must to go. Better to make a booking as sometime is difficult to find an available spot. Highly recommended.
The best Indian-fusion fare in Sydney. We opted for the Banquet which served a set platter of non-vegetarian entrees, assorted naans with dips and biriyani.
Every entrée showcased a unique twist while still sticking to its original flavours. The curry bombs (pani puri filled with chicken bits and butter chicken gravy) were the best! The chicken gravy in the bombs took it another level. We also had basil chicken tikka, Lamb sliders and spring rolls.
The first time we had the banquet we were served a small platter of naans with chutneys as dips. And a good serving of Biriyani. The second time they’d upped their game and served small quantities of gravies as dips, which went very well with the naans. And of course their Biriyani.
I’d recommend the Banquet solely for the fusion starters, it taste almost everything on the menu. Loved the experience!
Looking for the PERFECT place for an Indian feast? 😍 @masalatheory is the spot for a casual lunch, friendly business meeting or family dinner. 💜
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Located in a cozy spot of Surry hills.🤩 They’re serving Neo Indian cuisine, which is traditional Indian dishes with a modern touch. 🇮🇳❤️ Visit Masala Theory to get a unique perspective on original flavours and textures! I’m confident that their ambience & delicious food will put you in a good mood! ✨
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