SHAVANS @ PAKENHAM

Punchy Food in Pakenham They’re packing the patrons in at Shavan’s @ Pakenham, which serves North Indian cuisine in a spacious dining room adorned with white tablecloths and spice-coloured walls. The atmosphere here is relaxed and you can even sneak a peek at the chefs making naan and cooking meat dishes. Don’t be fooled by Shavan’s ordinary exterior. Once inside, you’ll find a modern space with a swanky backlit bar.

Shavan’s is vegetarian friendly with plenty of flavourful dishes to choose from. When it comes to the menu, you’ll find all of the Indian favourites you’d expect, from crispy vegetable samosas and garlic chicken tikka to start to a tempting range of mains. Whatever your weakness is — butter chicken, rogan josh with lamb, beef vindaloo, prawn jalfrezi, or slow-simmered black lentils — you’ll find it here. The chilli cheese naan is a popular choice on the side. Have a sweet tooth? Save some room for the homemade ice creams.