About Us
Welcome to The Hungry Hiker, nestled in Tecoma at the edge of the Dandenong Ranges. Our Indian and Nepali dishes are rooted in tradition, thoughtfully prepared to bring out deep, satisfying flavors. From rich curries to aromatic biryanis and classic comfort foods, each dish invites you on a flavorful journey. Every element of your dining experience is shaped by care and attention to detail, offering a taste of something special.
Where did it all start?
It all started in a hillside village in Nepal, where our head chef, Janak, spent his childhood years. In a small, quiet village with limited opportunities, many people packed their bags to pursue careers in other countries in hope of a better future.
Pictured - Wamitaksar Nepal.
A Move to India
He moved to India to immerse himself in the art of Indian cuisine, training at prestigious hotels like Hyatt and the Oberoi Group across various cities—an opportunity reserved for only the most talented individuals in the culinary world. His career then took him to Hong Kong, where he worked at the renowned Grand Hyatt for several years, further honing his expertise in international fine dining at one of the world's most esteemed establishments.
Pictured - The Oberoi Hotel, Agra.
A Melbourne Pioneer
In the early 90s, Janak moved to Australia and began establishing several Indian restaurants across the hills and various locations in Melbourne. At a time when the city's culinary landscape was still emerging, Janak and his team played a pivotal role in popularizing authentic Indian recipes, setting new standards for what true Indian cuisine should be.
His dedication to quality and tradition extended beyond his own restaurants; Janak has trained and mentored many Indian chefs across Melbourne, passing on his expertise and passion for authentic cooking. Dozens of kitchen teams throughout the city and suburbs have benefited from his mentorship, leaving a lasting mark on how Indian food is prepared and appreciated throughout Melbourne.
Pictured - Early days with team
A Trek to Tecoma
The Hungry Hiker brings a fresh new chapter to the hills—a place where authentic Indian and Nepalese flavors meet heartfelt hospitality. Rooted in decades of culinary experience and a deep passion for tradition, we’ve created a space that feels both inviting and inspired. Join us for dinner and enjoy not only our exceptional food, but also the story, spirit, and family tradition behind every dish. We look forward to welcoming you and making you part of our journey.
Our Vision
At The Hungry Hiker, one of Janak’s most recent ventures, we are dedicated to delivering exceptional food and creating a truly memorable dining experience. Our distinctive menu features exclusive dishes crafted with the finest ingredients, bringing you authentic and exclusive flavours. Whether you're joining us for a relaxed, romantic dinner or indulging in a delicious takeaway, we strive to make every experience feel special—with attention to detail, warm service, and food that speaks for itself.
Our Philosophy
At The Hungry Hiker, food is more than a meal—it’s a memory. Every dish reflects the recipes we grew up with, passed down and refined over time. We believe in honest flavors, slow preparation, and the quiet satisfaction that comes from doing things the right way. Whether it’s a spiced curry from the streets of Delhi or a slow-cooked goat dish from a village in Nepal, our aim is simple: to serve food that feels real, rooted, and worth remembering.