From Punjab to Shepparton: Noble Monks is an international delight

“When I walked in here, it was like you feel almost spiritual, you feel at home.”

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The building had a long and varied past — Mr Jhand heard it had been used as a dairy factory and a drug packing centre — before it became a buzzing restaurant and cocktail bar.

Now, as Noble Monks, the venue may be most aptly described as having "something for everyone", no matter your background.

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Nepalese, Italian, Moroccan, Cuban and Indian dishes are all on offer, with some traditional Australian favourites thrown in.

Whether you're in the mood for arancini or dumplings, house-made lamb curry or a wagyu steak burger, Noble Monks’ eclectic menu will have you covered.

On our evening visit, we sampled Nepalese pork dumplings with spicy chilli sauce, sweet potato chips with spicy mayo and a tomato medley bruschetta.

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Perfect for a tapas-style shared feast, the portions were generous and the flavours rich.

The tomato medley bruschetta was a particular highlight — the bocconcini, basil and sticky balsamic glaze gave the dish a delightful punch while still championing the fresh produce.

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But the Nepalese dumplings or "momos" were also a must try.

Different from Japanese gyoza and traditional Chinese dumplings, the momos are filled with meat, cheese or vegetables, steamed and served with a dipping sauce — usually tomato or chilli.

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Mr Jhand said the diverse international menu was inspired by his and his wife's story of migration.

In 2005, Mr Jhand left his home in Punjab, India to start a new life in Australia, while Mrs Kaur headed to Canada.

When Mrs Kaur eventually moved to Australia in 2012, the pair reunited and married.

“I came to Australia as an international student,” Mr Jhand said.

“I travelled a lot and found what was good, and what I believed people in Australia would like.”

While Mr Jhand studied and worked full-time in Melbourne, he and Mrs Kaur had their sights set on one day opening a restaurant of their own.

Eventually, they found their way to the Goulburn Valley.

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“We were looking to open a business, and I had friends here and came here to Shepparton a few times,” Mr Jhand said.

“It always felt like home, it's a quiet town, it's open.

“Where I come from is the desert, there's big farms there and our town is similar in the feel to here.”

Nowadays, the large space boasts exposed brick walls, colourful art, lush pot plants and lively music.

Though the space could seem intimidating, it has been craftily separated into cosy rooms and dining spots — perfect for large groups and functions.

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And while diners may come for the well-priced range of cocktails, they'll stay for the friendly service and welcoming atmosphere.

Mr Jhand said they'd always celebrated local suppliers and businesses, with the motto "cook less, more often".

They're certainly cooking often, with a kitchen open from 8 am until late at night.

“No other place does it — we do breakfast and lunch all day,” Mr Jhand said.

“If someone comes here craving pasta in the morning, we'll cook it for them.”

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Foodies with dietary requirements are also well catered for at Noble Monks.

Extensive vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are available, with great care taken towards special requirements due to a serious shellfish allergy Mr Jhand has been hospitalised for in the past.

“We are very strict with allergies,” he said.

“When I train my staff, I ask them when people say they don't want this, double check if they're allergic.”

And Mr Jhand's favourite dish?

He can't go past the grilled barramundi with roasted sweet potatoes and green beans.

“But actually, I love everything,” he said.

“I'm very proud of this space.”

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