Arjuna Indian Restaurant - Katoomba

We had dinner at Arjuna’s last night and what a pleasant surprise. Contrary to the other reviews on here, the service of the wait staff was spot on, the food was yummy and likewise with the atmosphere. We ordered a malai kofta and palak paneers for the mains and both seemed authentic and full of flavour. Definitely going back there next time we’re in Katoomba.

Such a shame, nestled in a beautiful location we were really hoping this restaurant would be good. There seems to be a complete lack of interest in customer satisfaction. The food is heavily overpriced. $15 for three reheated papadams. The curries are watery and lacking authentic flavours.

The samosas were tasty but the vindaloo had no spice or flavour, disappointing especially considering the price.

We walked in without a booking and the lady at the counter Rizalina ? who was serving some caucasian customers looked up curtly and sternly asking if we had a booking, completely devoid of warmth. The same question could have been asked sweetly so we feel welcome. Looks like some other customers of Indian origin like us have had the same experience, looking at the reviews here so maybe there is pattern. The food was terrible, naan and rotis were not properly cooked, aloo tikki seemed like a cutlet full of raw cumin seeds, dhal tadka was not bad but most other vegetables and dhal maharani were tasteless, did not seem to have the right combination of spices and not worth the price. The staff serving us was lovely, their smile and service made up for the curt attitude we were met with on arrival. We will not return though. Unfortunately we hadn’t read the reviews ahead of visiting. It is disappointing to read some rude and defensive responses from the owner to similar reviews here from customers.. It would have been a much more productive use of the owner’s time had it been spent looking within oneself and rising to the occasion instead of using attack as a form of defence..

Chicken baryani was very bad . Even it looks like chief doesn't know how to cook chicken baryani it was $35 very expensive. Chicken tikka masala n naan was not well cooked and very hot . Staff was okay . We very disappointed never recommend to any Indian and Pakistani as we all use too eat and cook tasty traditional indian and pakistani food. Maybe Mostly english people liked them as they doesn't know about the traditional actual food taste.