I ADORE Indian food and every once in a while find myself craving the unforgettable tastes of this amazing cuisine. Divine spices. Dishes bursting with colour. Combinations of flavours that transport you to a land far away.

Delhi 6, established in 2010, is all about authentic, traditional Indian dishes. Its name is inspired by Chandni Chowk, one of the oldest areas of Delhi – a crazy, busy market area where traffic, shops and people are so dense there’s barely space to move. If you’re a shopaholic you’ll find saris, silver jewellery, housewares and more. But dining, including the street food, would be my reason for visiting, given that Delhi is known around the globe for its fascinating, rich cuisine.

Let’s start with the décor. A main feature of Delhi 6 is the white, leather-like chairs, which provide plenty of support and comfort. The large bar area at the back of the restaurant ties in nicely. The taupe and brown accents add warmth while the crystal ceiling lights brighten matters up in a modern way.

Appetisers are served with tamarind or mint sauce and the vegetarian platter (for two) is a great way to sample a variety. You can go for vegetable samosa or pakora, onion bhaji or the broccoli fritters, which we thoroughly enjoyed. This dish is created with delicate home-ground spices and rosemary and the broccoli dipped into chickpea batter (a thin coating) and then lightly fried. Okay, the broccoli bit is better for your health than the fried bit, but I’d go for this appetiser anytime.

We were equally delighted with the “Velvet butter chicken”, and the word “velvet” sums up the dish perfectly. There are so many intriguing ways to make butter chicken and I never tire of trying them out.

This is chicken tikka simmered in heavenly cumin-scented butter. The meat is then slow cooked in a tomato-based sauce with just the right amount of spice (not too hot, but packed with flavour).

Indian cuisine caters for non-vegetarians well and the sesame prawn showcases this. Delhi 6 calls this dish one of its “special fusion stand-outs”. The prawns are marinated in lemon juice and spice. Next they’re delicately coated with sesame seeds and breadcrumbs and lightly fried. Delicious.

Other special stand-out dishes include the line-up of goat dishes, including one cooked with yellow lentils. I’ll be back to try the Goan fish curry and also the barramundi cooked in tomato, onion and cashew nuts with fenugreek leaves.

Delhi 6 easily caters for those preferring gluten free and dairy free dishes. The restaurant has picked up multiple awards throughout its life and I’ve no doubt there will be more to come.

Delhi 6, open seven days for lunch and dinner. 14 Childers Street, Civic, Call 6248 7171.