A taste of India in Kaiwaka

A welcome addition to the gastronomic variety of Kaiwaka is the recently opened Spice Lounge under the management of Satinder and Sukhwinder Singh and their capable staff.

Keen to bring their Auckland experience north, the Singh’s jumped at the opportunity to buy in Kaiwaka and establish an eatery with authentic Indian tastes, flavours and, of course, the ‘Spice’ which is borne by the name.

Favourites like butter chicken, Tandoori and Tikka are in steady demand but the Murg Kali Mirch is a dish that Spice Lounge has specifically introduced to NZ. This is also chicken based but the mix of curry leaves, turmeric and coriander in a rich, creamy black pepper sauce take the diner to the very heart of India.

Curry dishes are as hot and spicy as you can handle for real Indian foodies. However, at Spice, they cater to all with their 'World Flavours' including lamb shanks, steak, sticky ribs, risotto and also vegetarian.

“We are happy to meet new customers,” says Satinder. “They arrive with smiling faces and we expect them to leave with a smiling face as well.”

Spice Lounge is an ideal pit-stop for passing travellers or you may book parties or special occasions and they will make a set menu of your choice.

Expansive rural views imbue a relaxed atmosphere whether stopping for a full meal, or just a snack.

A variety of beverages are available or BYO if you prefer and the $12 lunch specials with dine in or takeaway options are proving very popular, and they’re open seven days – 11am till 2pm for lunch, 5pm till 9.30pm for dinner.

Plenty of parking and right on SH1 makes the Spice Lounge an easy place to stop and one that certainly won’t stretch the family budget.