Follow the smell of authentic Indian street food to Wellington’s cultural quarter, where Masala has been feeding hungry locals since 2001.

Menus take inspiration from throughout the Indian subcontinent while making the most of New Zealand’s bountiful natural larder, with all ingredients sourced as locally as possible. Broccoli coated in a fragrant yoghurt marinade is served wonderfully crisp from the traditional tandoori oven, while the peshwari beef arrives unctuous with ground almond paste and gravy.

While you’ll find all your traditional favourites, the chefs keep things feeling fresh with a fabulous selection of fusion dishes. Think chicken star, succulent chunks of meat cooked in onion and tomato sauce spiked with star anise, and even curry pizza, a must try.

Long sharing tables encourage a laid back, convivial atmosphere, while an extensive wine list and heady cocktails ensure the atmosphere is always buzzing. The exotic signature serve of rum, fresh mango pulp, Cointreau and peach schnapps will instantly transport you to a fragrant mango orchard in sunny India.