Zaaffran was founded in 1998 by two brothers from Bombay who decided that it was high time that Sydney had an authentic Indian restaurant. Their dream was to serve home-style cooking - the kind Indian mums would make.

"We thought that just serving mum's cooking would make the restaurant an instant success. But then we met Vikrant Kapoor (formerly chef de cuisine at the world-famous Raffles in Singapore) and we discovered that he could not only make the dishes which many Indian Mums make but a lot, lot more."

"Most people are unaware of the culinary wealth of knowledge that is locked in India, from households to royal palaces. My intention is to make people re-evaluate their perception of what Indian food should look, smell and taste like. Whilst our presentation may be modern we haven't abandoned any of the long standing traditions of Indian cooking" says Vikrant.

"...noble cooking...rich and elaborate...delicate and fragrant...finicky eye for quality...light, contemporary Indian food without sacrificing the complex layering of flavours..."
Australian Gourmet Traveller February 2000

Vikrant says: "Whilst you might find many western dishes use three or four ingredients, our dishes will typically have a dozen or more herbs and spices. It is the uncanny ability of Indian chefs who can combine so many different spices and flavours into a symphonic orchestration, pleasing not only the taste buds, but all the senses; which sets our cuisine apart from others".

Food in India, like music and art and all the finer diversions of life, is identified with the word 'rasa'. This means savouring or deeply enjoying a sensuous experience, the evocation or enhancement of a joyous mood. Dining at Zaaffran creates this kind of experience - it will take your breath away. This is a special restaurant that everyone can enjoy, even those unfamiliar with Indian cuisine.

"...offers a room as smart as anything in town and a seafood sampler that's better..."
Sunday Life, Sun Herald - Scott Bolles

The ideal venue for a business lunch, intimate dinner or special function, Zaaffran provides friendly and efficient service, and is located just minutes from the CBD. Enjoy breathtaking water and city skyline views - from outside on our terrace, or at a window table in the stylish and modern interior.