Menu of Gem of India in Auckland, New Zealand

Menu Overview

Gem of India, nestled in Glenfield, Auckland, is a culinary jewel that truly lives up to its name. From the moment you glance at their menu, you sense a commitment to authentic, flavorful Indian cuisine crafted for sharing and satisfaction.

The highlights are a celebration of both street food classics and hearty family-friendly options. Their Chicken Chowmein delivers a perfect balance of tender chicken and wok-tossed noodles, infused with subtle spices that nod to Indian influences without overpowering the palate. Complementing this, the Rice Plain Naan with a Can of Drink is an effortless combo that pairs fluffy, buttery naan—soft and pillowy—with fragrant steamed rice. The naan here deserves special mention: light, airy, and just as one customer aptly described, a "buttery, garlic-y cloud," making every bite a comforting experience.

The Family Pack Curry Combo offers unbeatable value. Four distinct vegetarian curries, paired with rice, naan, crispy poppadums, and a generous 1.5-liter drink, make it perfect for sharing with loved ones. The curry sauces are rich and aromatic, each with a unique profile—from creamy cashew-infused kormas to deeply spiced, tomato-based bhunas. This versatility showcases the depth in Gem of India's menu and their expertise in balancing textures and flavors.

Starters like the Paneer Tikka Malai exemplify the restaurant’s craft—chunks of paneer marinated in a lush creamy sauce, grilled to perfection in the tandoor, arriving tender yet firm, served with fresh salad and cooling mint chutney. The Onion Bhaji offers a crisp, golden batter surrounding sweet onions, paired beautifully with tangy tamarind sauce that punctuates the richness. For meat lovers, the Chicken 65 is a delight—deep-fried, spiced, and tossed in curry that is both vibrant and addictive.

When it comes to mains, the lamb dishes stand out as the menu’s cornerstone. The Bhuna Lamb baked in a sauce rich with onion, ginger, and capsicum maintains an impressive tenderness and balance of spices without overwhelming heat. The Lamb Masala and Lamb Korma provide excellent contrasts: the masala is bold and layered with tomato-based richness, while the korma softens the gamey lamb with creamy cashew gravy, exuding aromatic warmth. The Rogan Josh Lamb also promises a traditional, slow-cooked delight, making lamb enthusiasts genuinely satisfied.

Customers like Rachel Irène praise not only the “best curries” but the inviting, personable service, which turns simple pickup into a friendly interaction. Other reviews echo a similar sentiment, highlighting exceptional value, consistent quality, and authentic dishes like the celebrated Bunny Chow—a Durban classic that Gem of India delivers with authenticity and flair. This dish alone distinguishes the restaurant in Auckland’s Indian street food scene, drawing frequent returns from loyal patrons.

What resonates the most about Gem of India is their ability to maintain authentic flavors with fresh, high-quality ingredients, combined with attentive service and reasonable prices. The menu’s well-rounded nature appeals to families, solo diners, and groups alike, making it a versatile culinary destination.

In essence, Gem of India is more than a restaurant; it’s an experience. Each plate tells a story of tradition, spice mastery, and genuine hospitality. Whether indulging in their sumptuous lamb curries, sampling the crunchy onion bhajis, or sharing a family pack feast, you leave satisfied and eager to return. For those in Auckland seeking authentic Indian cuisine with heart and soul, Gem of India is undeniably a top choice.