Images: Supplied
Adelaide’s Hindmarsh Square is about to say goodbye to one of its oldest and most beloved culinary institutions, Jasmin Indian Restaurant. The family-run favourite for nearly 5 decades will close its doors for the final time in late January 2026.
Opened in the 1980s by Jasbeer and Anant Singh, Jasmin has been a cornerstone of Adelaide’s dining scene, serving everyone, from devoted locals to A-list celebs.
Current owner Amrik Singh – son of Jasbeer and Anant – says the decision was hard, but ultimately came down to wanting more freedom and family time. The hardest part was telling mum. “It is her baby,” he says.
“I broke the news of closing gently over months, but it was still a shock for her. It is a lot of work to run, so she understands.”
Anant, now 94, was the creative force that drove Jasmin into cult-status. Her homestyle family recipes passed down through generations and fed customers who returned again and again. She still occasionally helps out over the phone with “tech support.”
It wasn’t just locals who fell for Jasmin. Sir Elton John famously braved the restaurant’s renowned spicy chicken tindaloo, while celebrity chef Marco Pierre White described his meal there as “the best Indian meal” of his life.
But it’s the long-time local patrons, including a couple who dined there every Thursday night for more than 30 years, who have cemented its reputation as a community institution.
“They are more like friends than customers,” says Amrik, “Jasmin was their happy place.”
When news of the closure broke last Sunday, many were left devastated. One regular walked in and said, “You’ve broken my heart”, when they came into their weekly haunt.
The secret to Jasmin’s enduring success? Consistency and passion, Amrik says. “Be genuine, always make people feel welcomed. I love people, and I love listening to their stories.”
One of the restaurant’s earliest dishes, the Lamb Curry Bhoona Gosht, has stayed untouched on the menu since day one and remains as popular as ever.
As Jasmin prepares to close its doors, the Singhs are hoping to find someone who will take over the fully functional premises, an opportunity ideal for a wide range of cuisines.
While the family is looking for a buyer, the iconic Jasmin name is unlikely to continue. But Amrik hopes whoever takes over the recipes will carry the same spirit. “Whoever takes over, we wish them luck for the next 46 years.”
The legacy of this icon will continue to live on in the pages of their cookbook, filled with stories of the early days and Mrs Singh’s recipes to try in the comfort of your own home.
“I am thankful for the journey and the person I’ve become because of this experience”, says Amrik.
Iconic Restaurant Closing
Where: Jasmin Indian Restaurant
When: Late January 2026
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