Thava Indian Restaurant in Norwood, Johannesburg, brilliantly evokes the tastes and flavours of south India’s Kerala region. Owner Mathew Abraham’s origins in this picturesque part of the world inspired the warm, friendly service and outstanding food, which has been given a special magic by chef consultant Philippe Frydman – chairman of the prestigious local Academy of Chefs.

To transport you on a taste experience we are giving one lucky reader a R300 diner voucher to Thava. Simply send your name and email address to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and you could be in for a mouthwatering treat.

Warm Ambience

The ambience of Thava is warm, relaxed and, as one would expect, with a touch of India. There is something exotic about it from the moment you step through the doors. It is in the evocative aromas and rich décor; as if you have stepped into another, alluring world.

But a well appointed restaurant is still nothing without the food, which is truly divine. Kerala is a blend of different cultures and religions (Hindu, Christian and Muslim) and these influences are reflected in the diverse flavours of this region.

Mouthwatering Foods

Thava uses only the best, freshest ingredients in creating a mouthwatering array of vegetarian, lamb, chicken and seafood dishes. There are fragrant curries; briyanis and stews; and spicy tandoori and masala dishes. As most of these are suitable for fish, meat or vegetarian dishes, those with specific dietary requirements have never been better catered for.

What sets this establishment apart, other than the great food and inviting atmosphere, is its unique Indian tapas offerings. The tapas, served in tasting portions as a starter or as a shared main meal, allow diners to select from a combination of any items off the set or daily specials menu. And if it’s not on the menu, then they’ll try their best to accommodate your tastes.

An Array of Accompaniments

All meals are served with traditional breads, rice dishes and side dishes of freshly prepared chutneys, pickles or vegetables. There are six different rice dishes and 16 varieties of Indian flatbreads to choose from. With the tandoor oven in open view behind a bar-like counter, diners can watch how breads and tandoori dishes are prepared.

Their breads are not to be missed and include the popular naan and roti, as well as paratha – a traditional layered bread that is torn apart to serve and literally melts in your mouth. There is also the unique Thava roll, which has to be tasted to be believed.

What Awaits You

There is a wide selection of menu items to suit even the most discerning or delicate palate. Among the tapas offerings are sesame crumbed prawns served on a small poori with tamarind sauce and vegetable patties.

For many, the signature main dish is the chicken kasturi curry cooked in kasthuri herbs in a tomato and onion sauce. Others opt for the tandoori options, especially the lamb seekh kebabs served on a poon with a chilli tomato sauce. My favourite is the vegetarian paneer makhni – cubes of plain paneer cooked in a tomato and cashew nut sauce with cream and butter.

Ideal Venue

Thava is a highly recommended venue, whether a romantic dinner with the love of your life or for a function. The nature of Indian food inspires sharing and this is the ethos of the restaurant. As such they cater for everyone from intimate diners to private functions.

Highly recommended. And do not forget to send your name and email address to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to stand a chance of receiving a R300 dinner voucher.