Best Indian Restaurant in Geelong: Why Eastern Spice Stands Out
Geelong's dining scene has grown remarkably over the past decade, but when it comes to Indian food, one restaurant has consistently risen above the rest. Eastern Spice, located at 1 Bellerine Street on the stunning Geelong waterfront, has earned its place as the undisputed best Indian restaurant in Geelong, and the numbers back it up. Voted No. 1 in the Geelong Foodie Poll and holder of the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for 10 consecutive years, Eastern Spice isn't just popular — it's in a class of its own.
So what exactly makes Eastern Spice stand out in a city full of dining options? Here's what keeps Geelong locals and visitors from across Victoria coming back again and again.
The Curry Queen Behind the Kitchen
Every great restaurant has a great story, and Eastern Spice's story begins with its founder and head chef, Manpreet Sekhon — affectionately known as Geelong's Curry Queen. Manpreet trained under accomplished chefs at the prestigious five-star Park Plaza Hotel Punjab before earning the recognition of two of India's most legendary culinary figures: Jiggs Kalra, the "Czar of Indian Cuisine," and celebrated chef and entrepreneur Sanjeev Kapoor.
That world-class pedigree doesn't sit on a shelf at Eastern Spice — it's alive in every dish. When you order at Eastern Spice, you're tasting the result of genuine expertise, decades of dedication, and a deep, personal love of Indian food. That's something no amount of marketing can manufacture.
Authentic Indian Cuisine — No Shortcuts, No Compromises
At Eastern Spice, authenticity isn't a buzzword; it's the standard. The menu draws inspiration from across India's 28 states, celebrating the full diversity of the subcontinent's culinary traditions. From the rich, slow-cooked curries of the North — think butter chicken, rogan josh, and dal makhani — to vibrant, spice-forward dishes from India's coastal regions, every plate is prepared using traditional techniques, locally sourced produce, and handpicked Indian spices.
Vegetarians are exceptionally well catered for, with an extensive menu of curries, lentil dishes, paneer specialties, and biryanis that are every bit as bold and satisfying as the meat dishes. And for diners, all meat at Eastern Spice is sourced from a certified halal supplier, making it one of the very few truly halal-friendly Indian restaurants in Geelong.
A Setting That Transforms Dinner Into an Experience
Good food deserves a great setting, and Eastern Spice delivers on both fronts. Situated right on the Eastern Beach foreshore overlooking Corio Bay, it is the only Indian restaurant in Geelong with genuine waterfront views. Whether you're watching the sun dip below the bay on a summer evening or cosying up for a winter curry with the water glittering outside, the atmosphere at Eastern Spice elevates every visit into something truly special.
Catering & Wedding Services That Go Beyond the Restaurant
Eastern Spice's reputation extends well beyond its dining room. The restaurant is one of the most sought-after Indian catering and Indian wedding catering providers in the Greater Geelong region. Led personally by Manpreet Sekhon, the catering team designs bespoke menus for events of all sizes — from intimate gatherings to grand Indian wedding receptions — delivering the same quality and care that defines the restaurant experience.
Final Thoughts
Geelong has no shortage of places to eat, but Eastern Spice occupies a category of its own. Exceptional food, an extraordinary chef, a one-of-a-kind waterfront setting, trusted halal certification, and a catering service that brings it all to your door. If you haven't experienced it yet, your table is waiting.