6 Best Butter Chicken In Australia
Though invented in India as a clever way to combine tandoor or clay oven-roasted chicken with a mildly flavored sauce, Butter Chicken rose to fame in 1975 when the Gaylord Indian restaurant in Manhattan introduced it on its menu. Australia has a strong expat community that has always craved a taste of nostalgia reminding them of the home they left behind.
Let’s take a look at the Butter Chicken or Murgh Makhani and see where we can grab a bite of the best butter chicken in Australia made from stewed tomatoes blended with a rich nut puree and topped with sweet spices across Australia.
1. UTSAV – The Indian Restaurant

Location: 155 Canterbury Road, Heathmont, VIC 3135
Website: https://www.utsavrestaurant.com.au/
About:
At the heart of the kitchen, skilled Indian chefs, trained by top hospitality brands across the country, lead the way. The restaurant’s atmosphere is modern, creating a cosmopolitan vibe. Continuously, it’s been recognized as one of Melbourne’s finest Indian dining spots, earning an impressive average rating of 4.5 on Yelp and TripAdvisor. Its popularity among expats adds to its charm, indicating authenticity in serving international cuisines. Their specialties include the beloved Butter Chicken, flavorful Rogan Josh, and delectable Mango Chicken.
Their Butter Chicken:
Distinguished by its generous portion size, this restaurant offers a sweeter twist compared to others on the list. Their servings are large enough to satisfy two people easily. The gravy boasts a velvety texture, blending creamy richness with tomatoes. Don’t miss their complimentary papadoms with dipping sauce – a delightful treat. Pairing it with their butter garlic naan is a popular choice among customers.
With this winning combination, the dish confidently competes for the title of the finest butter chicken in Australia.
Cost: At just $18.95, this dish offers great value for its size and impeccable service, reflecting the warmth of the Utsav team. Its generous portion size and excellent service make it a good deal. It’s an ideal choice for hosting parties and group dinners, catering perfectly to larger gatherings.
2. Abhi’s Indian Restaurant
Location: 163 Concord Rd, North Strathfield NSW
Website: https://www.abhisindian.com.au/
About:
With a rich experience spanning over 30 years in the Food and Beverage industry, Abhi’s Indian restaurant has evolved into a respected institution, earning support from both locals and expats. It has become a cherished symbol for those who love curry. The restaurant offers a diverse Indian menu featuring famous dishes from North and South India, as well as the coastal state of Goa. Many customers consider their version of butter chicken to be unparalleled in Australia.
The place buzzes with guests throughout the week, and the numbers speak volumes. Visitors are enamored by the food, ambiance, and overall experience at Abhi’s. A highlight from their menu is the Gulab Jamun, presented with homemade vanilla ice cream and a sesame wafer. Trying it out is a must, and disappointment is unlikely.
Their Butter Chicken:
Known for its generous use of cashew nuts in the recipe, this butter chicken boasts a velvety and luxurious texture, accentuated by delightful touches of fragrant green cardamom and subtle hints of bitter fenugreek seeds. Affectionately labeled as Chicken Makhani, it takes the spotlight on the menu and holds the title of being the town’s most hyped butter chicken among diners.
Cost:
The Butter Chicken costs $28, which might seem a bit high, but it’s justified by being one of the best butter chicken recipe australia, using the finest local ingredients and blending traditional recipes with a modern twist for an authentic culinary delight.
3. Gaylord Indian Restaurant

Location: 33 Spencer St, Docklands 3008 situated inside the Hotel Grand.
Website: https://www.gaylords.com.au/
About:
Surprisingly, amidst Chinatown, the Gaylord Indian restaurant shines as a hidden gem for exceptional food. Situated in the city center, this restaurant boasts lavish decor, elegant furnishings, and intricate marble paintings. Whether it’s a special occasion or a formal event, the impeccable service and top-notch Indian dishes make it a prime choice. Additionally, they offer a private dining room for personal gatherings and special occasions.
Their Butter Chicken:
They offer a distinct version that competes for Australia’s best butter chicken title. Typically, the name implies butter in the dish, but usually, this pertains to the curry or gravy. Meanwhile, the chicken is often coated with mustard oil to withstand tandoor’s high heat. Gaylord’s approach involves marinating and basting the chicken in butter while cooking, resulting in a creamy, rich texture. Don’t miss their North and South Indian Thalis – a must-try. Thalis present a set menu on a large brass platter.
Cost:
At $24, it’s a bit pricey, but the value matches the atmosphere and service that come with the meal.
4. The Colonial – British Indian Cuisine
Location: 118 Crown St, Darlinghurst, NSW
Website: https://www.thecolonialrestaurant.com.au/
About:
A journey to yesteryears, The Colonial specializes in genuine North West Frontier-style cuisine.
Highlighting the areas around Punjab’s five rivers, their team of expert chefs creates authentic flavors. In 2020, the restaurant secured The Trip Advisor Travellers’ Choice award, placing it among the top 10% of such eateries. The nostalgic journey begins with elegant wooden furnishings and lavish chandeliers. It continues with an enticing selection of appetizers, main courses, and distinctive dishes that maintain the region’s true tastes, elevated with modern innovation.
Their Butter Chicken:
Staying true to the practice of slow cooking, the restaurant meticulously selects the freshest ingredients and combines them with the perfect mix of spices, resulting in one of Australia’s finest butter chicken curries.
Juicy, tender chicken pieces are marinated and gently cooked in a clay tandoor, then coated in a luxurious, velvety curry sauce enriched with tomatoes and cashews.
Cost:
Priced at $22.9 definitely one of the cheaper options on our list but worth its weight in gold!
5. Punjabi Palace – Authentic Indian Cuisine

Location: 135 Melbourne St, South Brisbane, QLD 4101.
Website: https://www.punjabipalace.com.au/
About:
For over 40 years, this relaxed dining spot has been a cherished Indian restaurant in Brisbane. Chef & Owner Baljit Singh, originally from Punjab, is celebrated for his genuine interpretations of traditional North Indian dishes.
Among the fantastic appetizers they serve, the chicken pakoras and lamb cutlets are particularly noteworthy. Furthermore, the restaurant provides a banquet hall, perfect for hosting events, along with on-site catering services.
Their Butter Chicken:
Chef Baljit’s genuine recipes distinguish his dishes from other restaurants in Brisbane. Delicate hints of fenugreek combined with the sweetness of cardamom infuse a dense and creamy curry made from tomatoes and cashew nuts. This standout element on the menu positions the dish as a strong contender for Australia’s best butter chicken.
Cost:
Priced at $19.50, perfect for those days when you want to treat yourself but not blow a hole in your pocket!
6. Mela Indian Sweets & Eats
Location: 428 William St, Perth WA 6000
Website: https://melaindian.com.au/
About:
For 15 years, this family-owned restaurant has been delighting customers with tasty Indian dishes and treats. They’re famous for their wide range of Indian Sweets and flavorful savory foods. The special street food menu at Mela is a must-try, featuring a delicious selection of Chaats (snacks), doas, pavs, and momos.
Their Butter Chicken:
At Mela, you can enjoy a classic butter chicken prepared in the traditional way, enriched with generous amounts of fresh cream for a delightful blend of sweet and savory tastes. It’s perfectly paired with their kheema naan, a special leavened bread filled with seasoned lamb mince and tandoor-cooked to perfection.
This incredible mingling of flavors positions this dish as a strong contender for the title of the finest butter chicken in Australia.
Cost:
Mela’s butter chicken costs $21.99, right in that sweet spot giving you a bang for your buck.
FAQs
- How much is butter chicken in Australia?
Butter chicken prices vary, but it’s commonly found around $20 to $30 in Australia.
- Is it cheaper to buy a whole chicken Australia?
Buying a whole chicken can be cheaper in Australia compared to buying individual cuts.
- Why is chicken so popular in Australia?
Chicken’s popularity in Australia is due to its versatility, lean protein content, and suitability for various cuisines.
- What is the best chicken to buy in Australia?
The best chicken to buy in Australia depends on preferences, but free-range and organic options are often preferred for quality and ethical reasons.
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