Did you know that an authentic taste of Indian cuisine lies right on your doorstep in Green Point? As I stepped through their doors I was greeted by a powerful spicy aroma and the sound of plates being scraped clean – which is always a good sign!
Ajit Kanakia, the founder of Jewel of India, combines South African flair with Indian spices, having opened their first Jewel of India restaurant in Durban 25 years ago. Since then they have moved shop to the Western Cape with a restaurant in George and now one in Green Point. And why the move? Ajit insists that it’s the atmosphere and the people that brought him to the Mother City, especially the foodies who are willing to eat out a couple of times a week.
Maxwell, the manager at Jewel of India, has been with them since the restaurant opened their doors in 2014, and knows everything about the business from their loyal customers, to the favourite dish on the menu and who always orders extras.
The interior of the restaurant is homely and sleek, with Indian décor and colourful patterns adorning each wall. Situated underneath the trendy Cape Royale Hotel, the restaurant is right on the bustling Somerset Road with an outdoor patio that’s perfect to soak up the rays on a hot summer day.
The menu is incredibly large and we promise choosing one dish will be a challenge in itself. Rather have a browse through their menu online to tantalise your taste buds before you go. Start off your meal with a plate of crispy samosas, vegetable kebabs, and salt and pepper prawns for the table, then tuck into any of their delicious main meals ranging from chicken and lamb curry to seafood and biryani. Maxwell insists that the firm favourite is the delicious chicken korma curry topped with roasted cashew nuts, ginger and garlic.
If you are looking for a regular spot to satisfy for your craving for exquisite Indian cuisine, then Jewel of India is definitely a favourite amongst both locals and tourists.
