From Bangalore to Melbourne’s Final Five: Namma Bangalore Vibbes Named a Critics’ Pick Finalist in THE AGE GOOD FOOD GUIDE FINALIST MELBOURNE

A dream born in Bangalore. A journey built in Melbourne. And now, a moment we will never forget.

We are incredibly proud to announce that Namma Bangalore Vibbes (NBV) has been named among the final five finalists for Critics’ Pick of the Year at The Age Good Food Guide Awards 2027.

For our little piece of Bangalore in Carnegie, Melbourne, this is more than recognition.

It is a milestone that still feels almost unbelievable.

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What began as a dream to bring the authentic flavours, energy and spirit of Bangalore to Melbourne has now found a place among the finalists recognised by one of Australia’s most respected restaurant guides.

THE AGE GOOD FOOD GUIDE FINALIST MELBOURNE

And we couldn’t be more grateful.

A Bangalore Dream That Found Its Home in Melbourne

Namma Bangalore Vibbes was never meant to be just another Indian restaurant.

It was born from memories.

The sound of a busy Bangalore street.

The irresistible aroma of a freshly made masala dosa.

The comfort of a proper Donne Biryani.

The familiar taste of filter coffee.

The conversations, laughter, chaos and warmth that make Bangalore feel like home.

As a Bangalore girl who has called Melbourne home for almost two decades, our founder wanted to create something that connected those two worlds.

A place where Bangaloreans could rediscover the food they grew up loving, and where Melbourne diners could experience the extraordinary flavours of Karnataka.

That’s how Namma Bangalore Vibbes came to life.

Bangalore by Birth. Melbourne by Choice.

From Carnegie to The Age Good Food Guide

When we opened our doors at 118 Koornang Road, Carnegie, our mission was simple: serve food with authenticity, creativity and heart.

From our CTR-style Masala Dosa, Thatte Idli and Bangalore Masala Puri to our signature Donne Biryani and Chicken Jo, every dish carries a little of our story.

Along the way, we started creating our own Bangalore-inspired dishes, including Mushroom Ghee Roast Dosa Tacos, Chicken Tacos and Prawn Patrol.

Our aim has always been to respect tradition while bringing something fresh and exciting to Melbourne’s dining scene.

In January 2026, we were delighted when renowned food writer Dani Valent featured Namma Bangalore Vibbes in The Age Good Food.

It was a wonderful moment for our restaurant.

But being named among the five Critics’ Pick of the Year finalists has taken that feeling to another level.

To see our restaurant recognised alongside other remarkable dining establishments is an honour we will always treasure.

What Does Being a Critics’ Pick Finalist Mean to Us?

For us, this recognition represents more than what arrives on the plate.

It represents our identity.

Our Bangalore roots.

Our love for Karnataka cuisine.

Our willingness to experiment.

And the experience we have worked so hard to create for every guest who walks through our doors.

From the energy of our dining room to our upstairs RCB Lounge, Namma Adda Maga, we wanted to build somewhere people could share food, celebrate life and make memories.

Being recognised as a finalist is an extraordinary encouragement to continue that journey.

And while we are immensely proud to have reached the final five, we know that none of this would have happened without the people around us.

This Recognition Belongs to Everyone Who Believed in NBV

To our incredible kitchen team, who bring our Bangalore flavours to life every day.

To our floor team, who welcome guests and work tirelessly to make every dining experience special.

To our friends and family, who supported us through every challenge.

To Melbourne’s Bangalore and Indian communities, who embraced us from the beginning.

And to every customer who visited us, shared a meal, recommended us to a friend, celebrated an occasion or simply returned for another dosa.

Thank you.

You have all played a part in this achievement.

Running a restaurant involves long days, late nights, constant learning and moments of uncertainty.

But milestones like this remind us why we started.

We wanted to create a little piece of home.

And somehow, that little dream has grown into something truly special.

The Journey Is Only Beginning

As we celebrate this achievement, we are also looking towards an exciting future.

With new dishes, unique sharing and tasting experiences, and plans to bring Namma Bangalore Vibbes to Melbourne’s western suburbs, there is so much more ahead.

But no matter how much we grow, our heart will always remain the same.

Authentic Bangalore flavours.

Warm hospitality.

Creative food.

And a place where everyone is welcome.

The winners of The Age Good Food Guide Awards will be announced on 12 October 2026.

Whatever happens next, being among the final five is already an achievement we are incredibly proud of.

From the streets of Bangalore to the heart of Carnegie, this journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.

We came to Melbourne with a dream. Today, we celebrate a milestone.

Thank you for being part of our story.

With love and gratitude,

Team Namma Bangalore Vibbes

Bringing Bangalore to Melbourne.

Ooru Taste. Oz Vibbes.

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Come Celebrate With Us

Experience the flavours, creativity and atmosphere that make Namma Bangalore Vibbes special.

📍 118 Koornang Road, Carnegie VIC 3163

📞 03 9191 2712

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