Bala's Kitchen

After a long enjoyable day at the Cherry blossom festival at Hamilton, at nearly 3:30 pm, we called up Bala and said we are a group of 6 very hungry people ready to eat anything that was readily available. Bala and his team were extremely warm, hospitable and accomodating. It reminded me of the good old hospitality that one would experience while travelling across India in little village cafes. The chef served us the most delicious authentic tamilian style fish fry (we not only ate loads if it at the table, we also packed up a generous amount to take home), mutton biryani and mutton pepper-fry. We also had the most amazing porotta (super-crisp and fluffy) with chicken curry. To top it all, we had the most amazing filter-coffee. If this was not food-heaven, what is?

Bala's Kitchen in Hamilton was an absolute delight for my craving of authentic South Indian food, and today turned out to be a lucky day indeed. Our order included a variety of dishes: mutton biryani, fish fry 🐟rice, rasam, pepper mutton 🌶️🐐 porotha , and of course, a comforting cup of filter coffee ☕ From the moment the food arrived, it was evident that my soul was in for a treat. The mutton biryani was fragrant and bursting with flavor 😋 the fish fry was crispy and perfectly seasoned 🤤 and the accompanying sides like rice, rasam, and mutton sukkah were exceptional. What elevated the experience even further was the warm hospitality of Peter, who was not only friendly but also incredibly welcoming. His attention to our dining experience made us feel right at home. Bala's Kitchen truly delivered on the promise of authentic South Indian cuisine, and I left with a content and satisfied heart, knowing that I had discovered a gem in Hamilton. I can't wait to return and explore more of their delicious offerings.

I’m glad my first experience of South Indian cuisine was at Bala’s. I can’t prove if it’s authentic, but for the first time, I was moved by food to visit the country of its origin. Chicken biryani and mango lassi went so well together. Impossible to forget the flavours.. loved the atmosphere for being so seemingly…untouched? And the guy taking order was mindful of those coming into the shop and quickly taking accurate orders. Please keep it that way!