Business Details
34 Years
experience
Experience Authentic Asian Cuisine at Hanuman
Established in 1992, Hanuman represents a lifelong commitment to creating exceptional Asian cuisine by renowned chef Jimmy Shu. Our journey began in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and has evolved into becoming one of Australia's most respected authorities in Asian flavours. We have assembled teams of traditionally-trained chefs who combine their cooking secrets with a contemporary take on Asian cuisine. Hanuman Darwin, our flagship restaurant, has been a favourite with locals and visitors for almost 30 years, offering both indoor and covered outdoor dining options. Hanuman Alice Springs, added in 2001, provides an oasis in the desert within the DoubleTree by Hilton. Our focus is on delivering authentic dishes from Malaysia, Thailand, and India using the finest local and regional produce.The elegant atmosphere in both restaurants reflects Jimmy Shu's extensive travels to source exquisite decor that complements our menu offerings. We pride ourselves on sourcing local produce to limit our carbon footprint while maintaining uncompromising quality. Our food celebrates both Asian and Australian cultures, blending traditional ingredients with modern Australian produce. With over 30 years of experience, we continue to take diners on a culinary journey through Southeast Asia, ensuring every plate achieves the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and sour.
Services
Thai Cuisine
Indian Cuisine
Nonya Cuisine
Halal-Certified Dining
Banquet Services
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- We offer 30 years of expertise in authentic Asian cuisine
- Our menus feature hand-picked ingredients from Southeast Asia
- Award-winning chef Jimmy Shu leads our culinary team
- We combine traditional recipes with modern Australian produce
- Sustainable practices with locally-sourced ingredients
Associations and certifications
- Halal Certification
Services
Thai Cuisine
Experience authentic Thai dishes crafted with traditional ingredients and modern techniques. Our menu features classic curries, stir-fries, and street food favourites. Each dish balances sweet, salty, and sour flavours to create an unforgettable dining experience.
Indian Cuisine
Savour our contemporary take on Indian cuisine using time-honoured recipes. From rich curries to tandoor-grilled specialties, our menu showcases regional diversity. We use premium spices and fresh ingredients to deliver authentic Indian flavours.
Nonya Cuisine
Discover our Nonya (Peranakan) dishes blending Chinese techniques with Southeast Asian spices. Our menu features heritage recipes passed down through generations. Each dish reflects the cultural fusion of Malaysia's culinary traditions.
Halal-Certified Dining
Enjoy 100% halal-certified meals prepared to strict dietary requirements. Our entire menu complies with halal standards while maintaining exceptional taste. This service ensures all diners can experience authentic Asian cuisine with confidence.
Banquet Services
Host memorable events with our custom banquet menus for groups. Available for both Darwin and Alice Springs locations, our team creates tailored dining experiences. Perfect for celebrations, corporate events, or special occasions with groups up to 35 people.
People
Jimmy Shu
Founder & Head Chef
Renowned chef Jimmy Shu brings decades of experience creating exceptional Asian cuisine. Starting in Colombo, he became Australia's leading expert in Asian flavours. His culinary vision combines traditional techniques with modern Australian influences.
Questions
What cuisines does Hanuman serve?
We specialise in Thai, Indian, and Nonya (Malaysian) cuisines using authentic ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
Are your restaurants halal-certified?
Yes, both Darwin and Alice Springs locations offer 100% halal-certified dining options across our entire menu.
Can I book large groups?
We accommodate groups up to 35 people at Darwin and 30 at Alice Springs. Email us for bookings exceeding these numbers.
Do you use local ingredients?
We prioritise Northern Territory produce to reduce our carbon footprint while maintaining exceptional quality and freshness.
What are your operating hours?
Lunch Wednesday-Friday 12:00-14:30, dinner Monday-Sunday 18:00-22:00 at both locations.
Do you offer takeaway options?
Yes, we provide takeaway services at both Darwin and Alice Springs locations with full menu availability.
Reviews (7)
Renmy Dang
Jan 12, 2022
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Great food, good customer service, we pre order via email so maybe that's the reason why food preparation time didn't take long time
Cara Littlefair
Jan 12, 2022
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Absolutely adore Hanuman. The butter chicken is the best we've had in Darwin by a long stretch. We also shared the tasting plate, and the money bags surprised us with how amazing they were. Highly recommend, amazing interior decoration as well. Great place to take people for a nice dinner out.
Jill Dart
Jan 10, 2022
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Thai food was nice but not spectacular. We tried 3 different dishes each one was 'OK' we actually expected better. We wanted to order desserts but nobody came to take our order so after waiting half an hour we decided to pay our bill and try somewhere else for our sweets. The restaurant is nicely furnished with very pleasant staff and nice atmosphere.
Howard Thomas
Jan 07, 2022
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If you like Indian food, no forget that, if you like food, don't miss Hanuman. I've struggled to find good Indian food in Australia, so I never miss Hanuman when I'm in Darwin. My favourite Indian restaurant in Australia. Not just the food, the other hard to get in Australia is good service, Hanuman always look after you well.
Jt
Nov 13, 2021
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Fantastic restaurant which definitely lives up to its reputation. The food was fantastic, the service wonderful and the venue classy. The food from different regions adds nice variety.
Eff Eff
Sep 24, 2021
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Glad to have found a table, on a random Tuesday night even! Our waitress (Michelle) suggested what to order and when asked for more spicy, it came as what we expected ! Chicken and beef is halal, but you can always check again before ordering to make sure the info is updated. Their chicken satay was of Malaysian style, thats a rare find! Jackfruit curry was mindblowing good and thick gravy. The dessert didnt have enough pandan flavour, but otherwise all else is good!
Mark Smith
Jun 25, 2021
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Listed in the good food guide I had high expectations. Arrived to a very busy reception desk (photo) and waited ten minutes to be seated watching the uncleared tables. Still I thought the food must be great. It was good but not great. Seems lost in the Thai Indian fusion.
