The Story of Nevedya
Our journey of food, flavour, and spirit
Nevedya began as a dream to create more than a restaurant. For us, food has always been sacred—a way to nourish body, mind, and spirit. From the moment you arrive, you step into a space that is part kitchen, part sanctuary, and part community gathering place.
The Heart Behind Nevedya
We are Shakti Em and Daniel, partners in life and in vision. Shakti brings decades of experience as a chef, weaving flavour and healing intention into soulful dishes, while Daniel holds the space with warmth and care. Together we have shaped Nevedya into a place where food, spirit, and nourishment come alive in the hills.
A Journey of Flavours
Nevedya has been shaped as much by who we are as by where we’ve been. Daniel’s Greek heritage taught him that food and culture are inseparable, while Shakti has spent more than twenty years refining her craft in kitchens around the world.
Our travels through the Middle East, Asia, and beyond have left lasting impressions—aromatic spices, bustling markets, and shared meals in faraway places. These experiences live on in our kitchen, woven into the dishes we create today.
Through it all, one place has remained our greatest source of inspiration and soul—India.
Along India’s Spice Trail
Our journey with Indian food has taken us across the globe, from working at Indian ashrams to traveling throughout India.
We’ve explored the serene Himalayan mountains, the mystical Ganges River, the bustling streets of Mumbai, the arid surrounds of Delhi, and the lush tropics of Goa, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. Along the way, we’ve tasted countless curries, thalis, and dosas, learning from local traditions and perfecting our understanding of Indian flavours and techniques.
Comfort, Healing, and the Taste of Home
People often ask how, as Australians, we serve such authentic Indian food. We are a fusion restaurant shaped by many cultures, yet Indian flavours remain at the heart of Nevedya. We grew up immersed in Indian spiritual practices and yoga, where Indian food was “home food”: nourishing, comforting, and full of love. The vibrant spices, the slow simmer of dals, the grounding comfort of khichadi—these dishes have always meant warmth, healing, and togetherness for us.
Spices, Stories, and Sacred Recipes
Shakti has dedicated over twenty years to perfecting her craft, learning the intricate secrets of curries, masalas, and chutneys from Indian ammas (mothers) who have passed down their time-honoured recipes for generations. She has also worked closely with Sri Lankan chefs, whose knowledge of spice and flavour added another layer of depth.
Together, we carry forward these traditions at Nevedya, honouring the depth of flavour and care behind every dish, and ensuring that each bite is not only delicious but also deeply nourishing.
Food as Medicine, Food as Spirit
At Nevedya, we are deeply inspired by Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasises balance, harmony, and holistic well-being. It reminds us that food is not only nourishment for the body, but also for the mind and spirit. By balancing the qualities of food with our individual needs, we create meals that promote vitality, digestion, and overall wellness.
This is the story of Nevedya—a space shaped by our roots, our travels, and our love of food as spirit. It is a place where culture and community meet, and where every meal is an invitation to slow down and connect.