A big fan of Samosa's this place is one of the best Restaurants around, very lovely food, very spicy. the Samosa's are perfect expecially the Vegetarian.

Approximate cost: $18

We were at Aki's on Wednesday, 16 January to celebrate my son's 1st birthday with my father and friends. We had made a reservation via email earlier that day. Not only did we change the time of the reservation a couple of times over the phone, we needed an additional chair when an unexpected guest joined us just as the entrees were served. And then my father was feeling cold (as he is not used to the Sydney climate) so we wanted to move to a table inside the restaurant. It was a busy night, so obviously with our endless stream of requests, we were far from being the ideal customers. Yet, not once did Aki's team say to us, “Sorry, we are busy tonight, it cannot be done.” Or “You would have to wait as we are busy tonight.” Each and every one of our requests was promptly addressed with remarkable professionalism. We had the best fine dining experience of our lives, which made my son's 1st birthday celebration at Aki's a truly memorable one.

The team we encountered that night was the most attentive, friendly, kind, patient and understanding crew we have ever met. For most of the evening, we were looked after by Sadi and Navin. There was also another slender gentleman with curly hair who was providing back up support whenever Sadi or Navin was not available. He did some creative manoeuvres with the chairs to accommodate our late guest without causing any inconvenience to the other customers seated next to us. He was also forthcoming in explaining to us about the items in the Vegetable Platter, which was a delicious work of art. Towards the end of our dinner, this lovely gentleman made a special effort in ensuring my son's birthday cake came to the table at the right time.

Every dish that we ordered that evening was sensational. The Eggplant Chips were unbelievably crispy and the Palak Patta Chaat with the yogurt sauce was so delicious, it had me licking the spoon! We are not so fond of Paneer but Aki's Tandoori Paneer was nothing like what we have had before. It was so nice!

After the mains were served and just as the kitchen was about to close, we wanted more rice and the Vendakai Sundal. The wide eyed chef looked really tired but he obliged our request and whipped up a Vendakai Sundal, which was just out of this world. In fact, every single dish we had that night, from the Madras Prawn Vandakai to the Pineapple Kesari (Semolina dessert), they were all mind blowing. The Kattu Kootu had a burst of bombastic flavours that is still lingering in my mouth. And the Wattalappam with the rich taste of palm sugar combined with coconut was simply divine. It was amazing how all the dishes were unique and yet the taste was so authentic.

We could not have chosen a better place for our little one's little celebration. Even though it was a busy night, the fabulous food and fantastic service was complimented by a free flow of big smiles from all the delightful gentlemen of Aki's. We were not regular customers. It was our first time at Aki's. But the team that was on duty that night made us feel really special. We were the last to leave with bulging tummies outside and all warm and fuzzy inside.

We have dined in many restaurants around the world but we have never come across a food establishment where every member of the team unanimously understands and reflects in their actions and attitude, the fine food culture and philosophy of the establishment. We thank Aki's for their excellent service and exceptional food. They well and truly deserve their Chef's Hats. (If not for our cranky bub who doesn't like high chairs, we would be dining at Aki's more regularly.)

Among all the places we have been to,
East to West,
From Paris to Penang, from Cologne to Colombo,
Aki's is the best!

A slightly disappointing dinner for two. The Punjabi chicken was somewhat tough and light on flavour. Highlights were the complimentary chicken mince balls, naan bread, wine, beer & coffee.

Approximate cost: $25.00