The Logical Indian has done it again — taking home the title of Best Indian Restaurant in South Australia at the prestigious Restaurant & Catering Awards for Excellence, making it two consecutive years at the top.

For founder and owner Mervin Joshua, the back-to-back victory represents far more than another award. It is the culmination of more than a decade of perseverance, passion and a commitment to telling the story of the Coromandel Coast through food.

“Coming to the finals for six consecutive years from 2019 and finally reaching the No. 1 spot in 2025 was an incredible feeling. But staying on top is something entirely different — and I believe it is nothing but God’s grace,” said Mervin Joshua.

“Above all, it is our customers who continue to believe in us, and a team that trusts the vision, encourages it and brings it to life — one plate at a time.”

The Logical Indian has spent more than 10 years building a distinctive identity in South Australia by showcasing Coromandel Cuisine, the regional food traditions of South-East India, while embracing quality South Australian produce.

Joshua says the second consecutive win is both humbling and motivating.

“To be recognised as the best Indian restaurant in South Australia for a second time, and two years in a row, is incredibly humbling. It also reminds us that we cannot stand still. We have to take our passion to another level, continue improving and, most importantly, continue contributing to the community.”

“For me, this feeling is something no revenue figure can ever provide. There is something deeply fulfilling about being recognised for simply telling people who you are, where you come from and what you are passionate about.”

The restaurant’s journey has been built around authentic regional Indian flavours rather than following trends — bringing generations of family recipes, techniques and memories from the Coromandel Coast to Adelaide’s dining scene.

FOOD AS A FORCE FOR GOOD

For Joshua, hospitality also carries a responsibility beyond the dining room.

“At a time when the world is so divided by war, hate, religion, discrimination and racism, we in hospitality have something incredibly powerful in our hands — food.”

“Every day, we have the opportunity to bring people from different cultures, backgrounds and beliefs to the same table. We can create harmony, happiness, love and joy through something as simple as sharing a meal.”

“And perhaps that is the greatest award of all. When people sit together, eat together, laugh together and leave happier than when they arrived — we are all winners.”

The Logical Indian acknowledges and thanks the Restaurant & Catering Association of Australia, the judges, organizers, sponsors, event partners, media partners and everyone involved in delivering the Awards for Excellence for recognizing and celebrating the South Australian hospitality industry.

Most importantly, the restaurant extends its heartfelt gratitude to its customers, supporters, suppliers and team members who have been part of the journey.

“An award carries a name, but an achievement carries the fingerprints of many people. This belongs to our team, our customers, our supporters and everyone who has believed in our journey. And above all, all glory and honour to Jesus.”

WHERE: 202 Hutt Street, Adelaide