DSalt – Taste of South India | Authentic South Indian Restaurant in Riccarton, Christchurch

ABOUT US

Taste of South India

Experience the vibrant flavours of South India at DSalt, proudly serving the Riccarton, Christchurch community since 2022. Inspired by the rich culinary traditions of India’s southern regions, DSalt brings together bold spices, comforting classics, and coastal influences to create an authentic and memorable dining experience.

Our menu features a delicious variety of South Indian favourites — from golden, crispy dosas and soft idlis to fragrant biryanis and deeply spiced curries. Every dish is prepared using quality ingredients, freshly ground spices, and traditional techniques that honour generations of culinary heritage. Whether you're enjoying a hearty sambar, a fiery Chettinad specialty, or a refreshing filter coffee, each plate reflects the true taste of South India.

With a warm, welcoming atmosphere and friendly service, DSalt is the perfect place to gather with family and friends or to enjoy a satisfying takeaway meal. For bold flavours, genuine hospitality, and the authentic taste of South India, DSalt is your go-to destination in Riccarton.

OUR MENU

CHEF’S SPECIALS

STARTERS

SIDE
DISHES

SEAFOOD
LOVERS

SOUPS &
SALADS

MEET OUR CHEFS

Chef Senthil Kumar – Head Chef

With over 25 years of distinguished experience across five-star hotels and award-nominated establishments in India, Indonesia, and New Zealand, Chef Senthil Kumar leads our kitchen with mastery and vision. His culinary journey includes internationally recognised hotels such as Holiday Inn, Taj Krishna, Noble Palace, Hilton, Accor groups, Generus Living groups and premium boutique properties in Christchurch. Trained under elite hospitality environments, Chef Senthil brings a deep expertise in Indian and Continental cuisine, with a refined focus on authentic South Indian flavours. His philosophy centres on honouring tradition while elevating each dish through precision, balance, and fine-dining presentation. Beyond technique, he is a respected mentor and leader, having managed and trained kitchen teams in high-pressure environments. For Chef Senthil, cooking is deeply personal, it is about family, culture, and creating meaningful dining experiences that bring people together around the table.

Chef Ganesh Raj

Bringing over two decades of international culinary experience, Chef Ganesh Raj adds depth and global refinement to our kitchen. His journey began in Kathmandu’s traditional tandoori restaurants before spending 17 years as Head Chef at Gandhaara Restaurant in Nagoya, Japan, where he led operations with precision, consistency, and authenticity. Chef Ganesh is highly regarded for his mastery of Indian curries and handcrafted naan, carefully balancing bold spices with refined execution. He also brings the distinct flavours of Nepal through specialities such as traditional Mo:Mo dumplings, Chow Mein, and Chilli Chicken, dishes inspired by the rich taste of the Himalayas. A member of the New Zealand International Chef Society (Nepal chapter) and having undertaken advanced training with MasterChef Santosh Shah in 2025, Chef Ganesh blends classical foundation with continual evolution. His cooking reflects discipline, heritage, and a deep respect for flavour.

Chef Baburam

Chef Baburam brings warmth, authenticity, and precision to our culinary team. Originally from Nepal, he refined his craft through more than a decade of experience in Japan, working as a chef at Ganesh Indian Restaurant in Hiroshima. Renowned for his expertise in traditional Mo:Mo dumplings and Nepalese specialities, Chef Baburam is meticulous in technique and flavour layering. His time in Japan sharpened his commitment to consistency, presentation, and detail — qualities essential in a fine-dining environment. He believes that food should feel like home while being served with care and refinement. Through his craft, he honours tradition while contributing to a dining experience that is both comforting and elevated.

SELECTED DISHES

Special Biryani $18

Chef's special biryani with premium meat and rich spice blend.

Chicken Chettinad $17

Spicy South Indian chicken curry with roasted spices and coconut

Lamb Madras $23

South Indian-style lamb curry with bold spices and coconut flavours.

Mushroom Matarer $17

Mushrooms and green peas cooked in spiced onion-tomato gravy.

DOWNLOAD MENU IN PDF

We were surprised with the size of hte restaurant. Very spacious indeed! The owner was very attentive and very friendly. Feel like we met an old friend. The foods were great as expected for the price we paid. We had a good time. We will definitely return to never before tasted dishes. Highly recommended!
Chakorn Techa
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