Vadivelu: A Buzzy, Modern-Indian Restaurant on Kloof Street

“Indian. With Attitude” is their slogan and it sums up the vibe at this bright and welcoming new restaurant on Kloof Street perfectly. In the space that used to be Manna Epicure, Jason, Kevin and Tim (cousins and in-laws of a South African Indian family) reinvent the modern Indian idiom: sage and terracotta walls, jungle wallpaper featuring tigers and tropical birds, pistachio banquettes, pale-wood chairs and tables (and gorgeous Mervyn Gers tableware). There’s a deep verandah with space heaters, a log fire inside, the air fragrant with spices from the Southern Indian dishes of their Tamil heritage.

Streetfood starters

Chef Jai studied in Tamil Nadu (the southernmost state of India) and has a deft hand with streetfood snacks, such as the potato masala dosa served with coconut chutney and aubergine curry dips. We also loved starters of pani puri curry bombs, prawn tikka bites, and courgette fritters (dipped in mint sauce),

Authentic curries

The menu is straightforward and easy to navigate. “The truth is we don’t speak much Tamil or Hindi,” says Jason, “ so our menu is all in English, it’s easier for everyone.” Authentic Southern Indian dishes, (and a Durban curry or two) make up the mains menu – we feasted on a divine prawn coconut curry, a sumptuous aloo gobi, and rich lamb tikka masala, mopped up with light and crispy parathas.

And the short winelist is a well chosen selection of personal favourites designed to play nicely with spices (with lots of options by the glass).

Vadivelu is hospitable, generous (we took home leftovers) and was already bustling and busy on a Tuesday night less than a week after opening.

Good to know There’s an excellent selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes. They are cashless and only take cards.
Opened June 2023
Opening times Monday – Saturday, 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 10pm
Contact 021 300 5777, info@vadilvelu.co.za
Where to find it 151 Kloof Street, Cape Town
Book through DinePlan

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