Vanakkam India - Footscray

As a lover of south Indian food decided to give this place a try.Had vegetable biryani and masala dosa with chilli mushroom.Everything was perfect.All the Aussies who want try south Indian food go there. You find mostly north Indian cuisine but this is so different...More

Went to Vanakkam for some south Indian food with very high expectations after reading the great reviews at urbanspoon. Saying the food was highly disappointing is an understatement.Don't know where to begin with this review. The Sambar was sweet. The "coconut chutney", if I can call it that, tasted like Hommus and barely had a trace of coconut in it. The Garlic chutney was passable. The idlis were nice. Masala Dosa filling was bland and tasted like boiled potatoes. Barely enough Sambar with the Dosa to even enjoy it. After this horrible experience, decided to give the Paneer Tikka a try hoping it would, somehow, change my opinion of Vanakkam. Unfortunately, it was even worse than the south Indian! 4 small pieces of marinated Paneer that were not well cooked. The only saving grace was the Coriander Chutney which was very good.Overall, a very bad experience. Possibly the worst South Indian food I have ever had in my life. Maybe just a bad day at Vanakkam but I would never visit it again and discourage others from doing so as well.

I wasn't paying so I shouldn't complain. Biryani seems to be the signature dish here. I had a chicken biryani which was ok but it seemed to lack punch. Someone at the table who was a big fan suggested that it was typical home style fare which may well be the case.The place was certainly popular with Indian student types and cabbies coming in for a bit of sustenance - no doubt swayed by the homey, casual nature of the place and the cheap menu.The olace has limited choices for wine, enough choices in beer and I'd say you wouldn't have any trouble with BYO.All in all it is a fuel stop and does it ok.

This location has been occupied by many and various owners all serving up Indian food.

As a fan of South Indian cuisine, I decided to give this restaurant a try. I ordered the sweet biryani and masala dosa with chili mushroom, and everything was perfect. For those looking to experience authentic South Indian food, this place is a must-visit. Unlike the more common North Indian cuisine, this restaurant offers a unique and simplified version. It is especially great for vegetarians and vegans. I hope they continue to maintain their high standards.