Opulent interiors and authentic Indian flavours arrive in Newcastle West
A rather regal culinary experience has landed in Newcastle West with the opening of Royal Indian Restobar on Hunter Street in December, 2024.
The restaurant, led by co-owners Pradip Kumar Rai and Pratap Dey Sarkar, combines sumptuous Indian cuisine with luxurious décor to create a destination that elevates and diversifies Newcastle’s dining scene.
Pradip and Pratap’s friendship spans over two decades and forms the foundation of their culinary ventures. The duo first made waves in Dubbo with their flagship Royal Indian Restobar which has thrived since its launch in 2016.
“We do 3,000 meals per week in Dubbo for dinner service alone,” Pradip said.
Their Dubbo success sparked the idea of expansion, and Newcastle – with its welcoming vibe and vibrant community – was a natural choice.
“When we visited Newcastle, we simply fell in love with the place. People here are very welcoming and we felt we had a lot to offer with our food and service to this great city.”
The pair spent two years searching for the ideal venue, eventually securing their home in January 2023 that can accommodate up to 140 guests while still offering ample parking – which was a priority for the team.
The opulent interior reflects their vision of comfort and grandeur. Every element, from handpicked furnishings to bespoke booths is designed with care.
“Each seat and table has been specially built to ensure comfort and a luxurious ambiance. The chandeliers add a touch of elegance. Our aim was to create an interior that’s spacious and royal, so guests don’t feel crowded. We wanted to provide a truly regal dining experience.”
This dedication extends to the brand’s food and drink offerings. The menu features 45 main dishes alongside 14 cocktails. Signature dishes like the butter chicken, lamb Malabar, lamb cutlets, and the cheese & garlic naan showcase recipes that Pradip has perfected over the past eight years.
“Indian food requires a lot of love to prepare. We don’t pre-cook; everything is made fresh to maintain the quality. We’ve also done extensive research to craft unique cocktails with the best ingredients. It’s about delivering a memorable and high-quality experience.”
The opening of Royal Indian Restobar in Newcastle represents not just a business expansion, but a labour of love for Pradip and Pratap.
“People in Dubbo have been so generous and encouraging, and we hope for the same love and warmth from Newcastle. Our goal is to set the bar high for ourselves and provide absolutely delicious and immaculate royal service.”
As Newcastle embraces this new gem, one thing is certain – Royal Indian Restobar is poised to become a favourite for those seeking authentic Indian flavours in an extraordinary setting.
