TAMPA, FL —January 2026- Long before Curry Leaves Indian Cuisine became one of Tampa Bay’s most respected Indian restaurants, its founder was guided by a simple belief: if you stay disciplined, stay humble, and stay consistent, people will feel it.
That belief belongs to Saji Mathew, founder of Curry Leaves Indian Cuisine, whose journey from a modest gas-station kitchen to a flagship restaurant at Westshore Plaza reflects a deeper story of perseverance, patience, and purpose.
Mathew’s path was recently highlighted in Voyage Tampa, which chronicled his upbringing in southern India, his transition to the United States, and the quiet determination that shaped his approach to business. Rather than chasing trends or shortcuts, Mathew focused on mastering his craft, honoring traditional southern Indian recipes, maintaining consistency, and earning trust one guest at a time. Read the full Voyage Tampa feature here: https://voyagetampa.com/interview/community-highlights-meet-saji-mathew-of-curry-leaves-indian-cuisine
“When we started, I didn’t think about size or recognition,” said Mathew. “I thought about food, people, and respect for the culture and for the guests who walked through the door.”
That mindset became the foundation of Curry Leaves. Over nine years, the restaurant grew organically, built on loyal customers who returned not for spectacle, but for authenticity. The food never changed. The standards never changed. Only the opportunity grew.
Today, Curry Leaves’ Westshore Plaza location stands as a reflection of that journey, not as a reinvention, but as a continuation. The expanded space allows Mathew to serve a broader community while preserving the heart of what made Curry Leaves special from the beginning: house-made spices, time-honored techniques, and a hospitality philosophy rooted in humility.
Despite industry recognition and regional acclaim, Mathew remains focused on the same principles that guided him at the start.
“Success didn’t come from rushing,” he said. “It came from listening, learning, and staying true to who we are.”
As Tampa Bay continues to evolve, Curry Leaves Indian Cuisine remains a reminder that the most meaningful growth stories aren’t built overnight, they’re built quietly, consistently, and with intention.
Visit Curry Leaves Indian Cuisine
Address: 204 Westshore Plaza, Tampa, FL 33609 Phone: 813-319-4014 Website: https://www.CurryLeavesIndianCuisine.com
Open daily for lunch and dinner. Buffet available Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
About Curry Leaves Indian Cuisine
Founded by Saji Mathew, Curry Leaves Indian Cuisine brings the authentic tastes of southern India to Tampa Bay through time-honored recipes, house-made spices, and heartfelt hospitality. From its humble origins in a gas station to its award-winning flagship location at Westshore Plaza, Curry Leaves continues to blend tradition, flavor, and community spirit.
Learn more at https://www.CurryLeavesIndianCuisine.com
Media Contact
H. John Mejia
Media Relations
hjohn@inthezonetv.biz