The Hungry Hiker

Chef-driven Indian & Nepali dining in the Dandenong Ranges.

Led by Executive Chef Janak Gautam, The Hungry Hiker brings decades of culinary experience to a warm, intimate dining room in Tecoma.

Our Story

Greetings from Manu and Janak.

The Hungry Hiker is a small, chef-led Indian and Nepali restaurant in Tecoma, shaped by the life and cooking of Executive Chef Janak Gautam.

Drawing on years of cooking across India, Asia and Australia, Janak brings together authentic flavours, carefully balanced spices and signature dishes that reflect both tradition and creativity.

Whether you're joining us for a relaxed dinner, a family gathering or a special occasion, our aim is simple: to serve food with warmth, character and soul.

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Our Menu

Our menu brings together Indian and Nepali classics alongside a collection of house signatures developed over decades in professional kitchens.

From slow-cooked curries and tandoor specialties to refined vegetarian dishes and Himalayan-inspired flavours, every recipe is prepared with care and respect for tradition.

Whether you're discovering us for the first time or returning for a favourite dish, we invite you to explore the menu and find your own Hungry Hiker experience.

Explore Our Menu

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."

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."