Hot reviews for new Indian restaurant Shere Panjab, Chevron Island

Forced to shut down all 11 of his restaurants during the Global Financial Crisis, Sanjeev Kaushal is back with a new venue and it’s “breaking expectations”.

Forced to shut down all 11 of his restaurants during the Global Financial Crisis, Gold Coast chef Sanjeev Kaushal is back with a new venue and it’s “breaking expectations”.

Having just wrapped up its first week of operation, Shere Panjab Indian restaurant on Chevron Island has captured the attention of locals with one diner claiming it was “the best Indian” they’d had in years.

“I’m a born chef, not a professional chef,” Mr Kaushal said.

Shere Panjab is the new addition to the Island that Chevron locals are frothing about calling it "the best Indian" in years. Picture: Glenn Campbell

“I started cooking at home when I was 12. I have a very big passion for cooking which is why I’m coming back.”

Counting the former Raj Palace at Marina Mirage among his credits, the restaurant owner said there was “something different” about his food, with its flavours and spices connecting with his origins in north India.

“I cook real Punjabi food – goat curry, lamb rogan josh, tikka masala and it’s completely different from other chefs,” he said.

Shere Panjab’s Butter Chicken. Picture: Glenn Campbell

Mr Kaushal said he was hopeful of making a big comeback after years of struggle.

“We were hit by the GFC so it killed everyone and I was one of them – it was beyond our control,” he said.

“I had a massive nervous breakdown and was in depression for around 18 months. It took me a couple of years to get back but I came out strong.”

Filling in the past few years cheffing and driving for Uber, Mr Kaushal spotted the vacant site for his new venue on Thomas Drive.

Shere Panjab’s Chicken Kebabs. Picture: Glenn Campbell

“I just called one day and was told if I was in the area I could come around and check it out. Now we’re here,” he said.

“I almost gave up but when I nearly did this happened. I’m really happy and I’m hopeful to make a big comeback.”

Originally published as Hot reviews for new Indian restaurant Shere Panjab, Chevron Island