The Hungry Hiker

A culinary destination in Tecoma near the Dandenong Ranges, where Indian and Nepali traditions are brought to life.

Our Story

Greetings from Manu and Janak.

At The Hungry Hiker, our story is rooted in a deep love for the bold, soulful flavors of Indian and Nepali cuisine. What began in the bustling kitchens of Delhi — further guided by family recipes and regional traditions—has evolved into a refined dining experience grounded in authenticity.

Our menu celebrates time-honored flavors, while embracing innovation in just the right places—making certain recipes uniquely ours. Crafted for those who appreciate depth, detail, and a touch of the unexpected.

Each plate tells a story—infused with spices, delicate balance, and a passion passed down through generations. Whether you’re joining us for an intimate dinner or indulging at home with our thoughtfully prepared takeaway, Hungry Hiker offers an experience rooted in warmth, tradition, and culinary excellence

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Our Signature Dishes

Indulge in the essence of our culinary artistry with a selection of signature creations that celebrate the authentic flavors of Indian & Nepali cuisine. From rich, slow-cooked meats to vibrant vegetarian specialties, each dish is crafted to reflect time-honored techniques and the spirit of the Himalayas. Experience a refined balance of spices, textures, and tradition in every bite.

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Grand Goat Curry

Village style authentic recipe featuring tender melt-in-your-mouth pieces of goat meat (on bone) slow-cooked in a blend of aromatic spices.

Butter Chicken

A creamy, indulgent dish made with succulent pieces of chicken marinated in a blend of yogurt and spices, then cooked in our signature sweet buttery tomato gravy.

Lamb Rogan Josh

Slow-braised grass-fed lamb in a rich, aromatic curry infused with cumin, cardamom, and warm spices. Tender and deeply flavourful with a balanced heat.

Spicy Piro Piro Chicken

A fiery hot Nepali village style curry, featuring tender chicken simmered in a bold blend of spices, delivering a rustic flavour.

Coriander Pepper Prawns

A fresh and flavorful dish featuring plump, succulent prawns cooked in a fragrant coriander and black pepper sauce. The prawns are sautéed with aromatic spices, creating a perfectly balanced, zesty flavor profile.

Nepali Fish Curry

Delicate fish fillets simmered in a fragrant blend of traditional Nepali herbs and spices, sautéed with fresh ingredients, and finished in a rich, aromatic curry sauce.

Hear from our customers

Adam Evans April 2025 - Via Google

"Just been to the Hungry Hiker who staged my 60th Birthday party for 11 family and friends. The Service was truly delightful they couldn't have been more helpful to my wife who was allowed to decorate the venue with banners and balloons. The food was excellent as usual (which is why we booked to go there in the first place). Nothing was to much trouble. We all had a fabulous night and I felt so special. I would whole heartedly recommend "The Hungry Hiker" in Tecoma to one and all."

Reece Lane May 2025 - Via Google

"Came in for a date night with my fiancé and was met was a romantic candlelight setting, phenomenal service, atmosphere and food. Cheers."

Sarah Brown November 2024 - Via Google

"Went to Saffron Cottage on friday night with friends. Was the best Indian food experience I have ever had. The food was absolutely lovely. they catered for my dietry requirements with knowledge and I had no issues. The atmosphere ws lovely and was easy to talk to friends without having to shout. And the service made you feel like you were royalty. I think it might actually have new owners as I havent been there for numerous years and this time it was an experience i will never forget best in a long time."

Joe Clark January 2025 - Via Google

"Saffron Cottage is under new management and now called The Hungry Hiker. Large menu with excellent food quality, lots of vegan options and dietary requirements are well catered for. Service is friendly and personable, and the restaurant is clean, well presented and cosy. Would recommend."

Akash Chhetri January 2025 - Via Google

"As someone from India, I have high expectations for authentic Indian cuisine, and this restaurant exceeded them. The food was fantastic—full of flavor and perfectly spiced, just like home. The service was attentive and personable, making me feel truly cared for. The atmosphere was relaxed and romantic, perfect for an intimate evening. Highly recommend this place for both the food and the experience."

Nichita Gavrilescu January 2025 - Via Google

"A lovely atmosphere in the scenic hills of tecoma. The tandoori mushrooms were a delight. Would recommend!"

Mark Hawes March 2025 - Via Google

"My partner and I returned to The Hungry Hiker this evening for our second visit and we were not dissapointed. This time we asked Amrik to suggest the dishes so we started with the Onion Baji and then a Valley Beef Curry and Village Chicken Curry for mains. The food wes delicious as usual, authentically crafted by Amrik's father in the kitchen, and the service was excellent as we have come to expect. This has now become our go-to Indian restaurant in the hills and we will be introducing it to our family and friends."

Eshal Shoeb February 2025 - Via Google

"literally some of the best butter chicken i’ve had! the waiter was so kind and all the staff was beyond accommodating"