Govindas

Review by Franz Scheurer

Govindas is a delightfully different venue in Darlinghurst (you’ll find Govindas all over the world). It’s a combination Vegetarian Buffet and funky, laid-back cinema. It’s also fabulous value for money; at present you pay $ 13.90 for the movie only, $ 19.80 for dinner only or $ 29.80 for the two combined.

The cinema, in Govindas Movie Room, is decked out with ‘daybeds’ and cushions. You take off your shoes and recline to watch movies in fabulous comfort. It’s quite small and intimate and this adds to the atmosphere. This room is also air-conditioned, which helps your personal comfort. Personally, I prefer it to any ‘Gold Class’ I’ve ever been to and there is nothing boutique about the sound quality, either.

Dinner is served one floor down in a light, airy room, kept cool with lazy overhead fans. A sumptuous vegetarian buffet is ready for you and you can eat to your heart’s content. The food on offer is quite international, from spicy Indian fare to pasta in tomato sauce and a Greek salad. Everything is very well cooked and presented, but it’s the Indian fare that is outstanding. It’s spicy, texturally alluring and I bet you’re going back for seconds or even thirds. I loved everything from the spicy potato bake, deep-fried cauliflower, chickpeas, hot chilli, mango chutney to the fabulous saffron rice. I absolutely adored the soup and I recommend you start your meal with it. Every time you go back, your take a fresh plate to ensure that no cross-contamination can occur and the wait staff (who look after your drink and dessert needs) is friendly and efficient. You are served water (no extra charge) and you can also order soft drinks and I recommend the Chi for taste.

This is a fabulous way to spend an evening. If you’re a carnivore you will find you’ll never miss the meat and you can’t beat the value for money.

Score: 6.5/10

For more information:

Govindas Cinema & Restaurant

112 Darlinghurst Rd, Darlinghurst NSW 2010 +61 2 9380 5155 info@govindas.com.au

For bookings: http://www.govindas.com.au/form/bookings.html