Bikaner - Days Bay New Zealand

Had a late afternoon meal at Bikenar yesterday (14 July) with Sal and Emily, following a recommendation. Bikenar is by far the best restaurant of its type we 've visited in New Zealand. It 's not set up for the English speaking market, as attested by the clientele and the menu, and serves to a wide range of Asian tastes, all vegetarian it can even cater for Jaine vegetarians. We were unsure what to order, so asked one of the very friendly staff to recommend some dishes. He spent a good four or five minutes making suggestions and pairing food. In the end we shared a Samosa Chaat, Onion Bhaji, Special Thali, Shahi Paneer, and Emily had an American Chopsuey. This was more than enough to satisfy three hungry people. The food was delightful, with a subtlety often lost in 'typical ' NZ targeted 'Indian ' restaurants. Lots of fresh herbs added to the enjoyment. Quite a utilitarian seating plan and bright lighting give the place a slightly canteenish feeling, but it 's buzzing with activity and the diners were clearly enjoying the food and the company. I really can 't recommend this place more highly, and we 've got a copy of the menu to begin ticking off our meals there If you can, go!

Went today expecting it to be a small hole in the wall with average service from what we'd seen going past it on the bus. However inside it turned out to be a fairly spacious sit down establishment. The staff were knowledgeable on what could be made vegan and even made sure to hold off on the ghee when we ordered a second round of roti and forgot to ask for it dairy free. The star of the meal was the veggie manchurian (with gravy which was so good my partner almost finished them all before I got to grab my second one! As somebody who is thoroughly put off chickpeas I was shocked by how much I enjoyed the channa masala. I was also pleased with how spicy our food was made (for once our tolerance wasn't underestimated when we asked for it hot! Thank you very much for the great meal we'll definitely be back!

Have visited three times now each time the people have been so friendly and have been happy to recommend meals, and the food has been amazing!

First time went to bikaner despite seeing bad comments on fb. But genuinely speaking food was great we had masala dhosa i would say it was best dhosa i have tried. Good customer service too. Food delivery was also quick. Definitely going back again also recommending to friends.

Top notch food, fabulous ambiance! Highly recommend.