Have no doubt about it; East Row is the beating heart of the city. With the bus interchange, and the flood of people between both sides of Northbourne Avenue, the energy and buzz of this strip is like few others in town.
So, what better place for a venue that aims to bring the bustling energy of India to Canberra? East Bar and Grill takes up the opportunity with one eye on traditions and another looking forward to the lights of the big city. It’s a balancing act well executed throughout the menu, with plenty of offerings across local and Indian cuisines.
The Tandoori Grilled Sizzler Mixed Platter arrives sizzling on the plate with the aroma of Indian spices and lemon. The variety of flavours is stunning, with lamb, chicken fish, prawns, and mixed vegetables. The spices also run the full gamut though can be ordered mild for those less used to a zesty tang.
Look out for the fusion burger that brings Tikka flavours to the lamb patties. The flavours are rich and comforting, and is just one of the specialties to be rolled out over time.
The East Special Beef Burger is very much a product of the west, bringing together everything loved about the old suburban takeaway. With bacon and egg, all the usual salads and a generous beef patty, it’s designed to appease the most voracious of carnivores.
Lamb Chops served with beans and mash hark back to country kitchens, and again provide a safe refuge for more western palates. The lamb is as succulent as it should be, however the thick and rich gravy is just a bonus. There’ll be a fight at the table over who gets the last chop.
Speaking of favourites, the Butter Chicken is a dish that’s always hard to pass up. East Bar and Grill does just as you might imagine it should, with the thick rich sauce, fluffy rice and delicate sauce. This is the one for the new adventurers to Indian cuisine – the mild version is especially delicate, allowing the full range of subtle spices to emerge. It’s delightful.
There’s a lovely, warm feeling about the East Bar and Grill, with owners and staff alike happily engaging with customers to make them feel very much a part of the (brand new) furniture. Be it lunch with a friend or a dinner with many, there’s something for everyone.
