In the ever-evolving culinary landscape of Australia, where the next meal could be a delightful mystery just waiting to be uncovered, Google Maps has become the modern-day compass guiding food enthusiasts to gastronomic treasures.
As we celebrate two decades of this digital cartography, Google has unveiled a list that will tantalise the taste buds of foodies nationwide. The list isn’t just a simple compilation but also a testament to the collective palate of Australians, showcasing the most-reviewed restaurants over the past 20 years.
The results, curated by the Google Maps team, may come as a surprise to some, but they speak volumes about the country’s love affair with diverse and spicy cuisines. Indian restaurants dominated the rankings, proving that Australians have a serious penchant for heat and flavour.
1. Dosa Hut
Taking the crown is Dosa Hut in Harris Park, affectionately known as Sydney’s very own little India. This culinary gem has amassed over 14,600 Google reviews, boasting an impressive average rating of 4.6 stars.
The restaurant’s fame can be attributed to its enigmatic chicken 65 biryani, a dish that marries the fiery zest of chilli sauce with the comfort of fried chicken, reminiscent of the Chinese diners from years ago.
But it’s not just the biryani that people are talking about. Their 70mm dosas are a hit too, with a variety of fillings that cater to every preference, all at the price of under $20.
2. Chatkazz
Not far behind, and also nestled in the gastronome haven of Harris Park, is Chatkazz, the second most-reviewed restaurant in the country. This vegetarian street food haven has garnered more than 12,900 Google reviews and a solid 4.4-star rating.
Despite the queues that often snake around the block, patrons agree that the wait is a small price to pay for a taste of their beloved pani puri, chole-bhature, and papdi chaat.
3. Pho A Gogo
Surprisingly, the third spot doesn’t go to another Indian restaurant but to Pho A Gogo, a Vietnamese noodle restaurant in Melbourne’s Southbank. With a stellar 4.8-star rating, the highest among the top five, Pho A Gogo has charmed 11,700 reviewers with its authentic pho, all priced under $20.
The cherry on top, or rather, the mandarin after the meal, is the free fruit offered by the generous owners, a gesture that has endeared them to the local community.
4. Ziyka Restaurant
Ziyka Restaurant in Carlton, Melbourne, claims the fourth spot with its fusion of Pakistani and Indian flavours, particularly famous for its barbecue kebab platter and chicken shinwari.
It boasts more than 10,600 Google reviews and a 4.6-high star rating. Patrons keep going back for the restaurant’s ‘exquisite Desi cuisine.’
5. Opera Bar
And finally, Sydney’s iconic Opera Bar rounds out the top five, where the keywords ‘seagulls’, ‘sunset’, and ‘seafood platter’ frequently feature in its 10,000-plus reviews, painting a picture of an idyllic dining experience by the harbour.
The bar’s 4.4-star rating can be credited to its location, relaxed vibe, and food and drink menus ‘crafted from Australia’s best produce.’
These rankings not only highlight the most talked-about dining spots but also reflect the changing dynamics of dining out in the country. The rise of online reviews has shifted the power to the people, allowing diners to become critics and influencers in their own right.
It’s a digital age where a restaurant’s reputation can be built or broken by the collective voice of its patrons.
Have you dined at any of these popular spots? Do you agree with the masses, or do you have a hidden gem that you believe deserves the spotlight? Share your experiences and recommendations with the YourLifeChoices community in the comments below.
Also read: The untold story of Google Maps’ Australian roots
