Elchi

The Verdict

Executive Chef Manpreet Sekhon is taking over the former Press Club location to provide Melbourne with timeless Indian Cuisine. She is the mastermind and skilled hands behind Geelong’s Eastern Spice and Fitzroy’s Masti. Her new restaurant Elchi is set to showcase the acclaimed Curry Queen’s master technique and proud heritage.

Elchi will push the boundaries of Indian cuisine as you know it with its inventive menu. The signature 24-Carat Gold Chicken Mussalam stars a tender chicken leg covered in Garam Masala and cashew paste which is garnished with a delicate gold leaf. While the crisp whole Amritsari fish is balanced with tamarind, roasted rice, lime and is perfectly designed to share. The rest of the menu is stacked with smaller plates, grilled dishes and small accompaniments so you can order a feast for the whole table to get amongst; but you’ll definitely want to save room for dessert with selections of apple Jalebi and chocolate Delice on offer.

The extensive drinks menu shouldn’t be overlooked either. The house named cocktail, Elchi, features a heavy mixture of ruby port, dark matter rum, grapefruit and pink cardamom bitter. Whereas the Pink City cocktail is light with shaken gin, hibiscus, pomegranate and lemon; or if you want to opt for a glass of wine, Elchi’s menu has reds and whites from some of Australia’s most esteemed vineyards. 

This storied Melbourne location which is renowned for its interior of curved leather booths and striking gold ceiling lights is ready to give Melburnians a new culinary experience. If you’re eager to experience the perfect marriage between traditional and modern Indian flavours, you can book your table here.

Image credit: supplied (Elchi)