From Home-Kitchen Traditions to Florida’s Favorite Indian Flavors
Curry Leaves Indian Cuisine
At Curry Leaves Indian Cuisine, food isn’t just what we serve—it’s who we are. Born out of passion, heritage, and a desire to bring people together over flavorful meals, our journey began with humble roots and a powerful dream: to create an authentic Indian dining experience in the heart of Florida that celebrates tradition, taste, and togetherness.
The Beginning
The idea behind Curry Leaves was planted decades ago in a bustling Indian household where food was the center of every celebration, family gathering, and quiet evening. Our founder, Saji Mathew, grew up watching his parents cook timeless dishes from scratch—grinding spices by hand, slow-cooking curries with care, and always cooking with love.
When he moved to the U.S., he carried not just recipes but memories—of street food at night markets, family thalis on Sundays, and the warm comfort of home-cooked meals. He noticed something missing in the local food scene: authentic, regionally diverse Indian cuisine that went beyond just the basics.
Meet Our Chef
The First Location: Tampa, 2016
In 2016, we opened our very first restaurant in Tampa, Florida. With a small team, handwritten recipes, and loads of ambition, we welcomed our first customers. From day one, our mission was clear: to serve real Indian food made with real ingredients—no shortcuts.
What began as a modest dining spot quickly became a local favorite. Families, students, professionals, and curious foodies began showing up not just for a meal, but for an experience.
Rooted in Tradition
India is not one cuisine—it’s hundreds. Our menu reflects that diversity. From buttery North Indian paneer dishes to fiery South Indian curries and crispy dosas, we ensure every dish is rooted in authenticity and cooked fresh to order.
We don’t compromise on ingredients. We import select spices, use traditional cooking methods, and constantly refine recipes to stay true to their regional origins. Whether it’s our Tandoori grilled kebabs or our street-style chaats, every dish tells a story from the kitchens of India.
Growing with the Community
As word spread, so did we. We proudly opened our second location in Lakeland, now the best Indian restaurant in Lakeland and with it, came even more opportunities to connect with new customers and share our food with families across Central Florida.
Beyond just a restaurant, Curry Leaves has grown into a community hub a place where people gather to celebrate birthdays, share holiday meals, or just grab a comforting plate of biryani on a busy weekday.
We’ve catered weddings, hosted cultural nights, and participated in local food festivals. Wherever there’s an appetite for Indian food made with heart, we show up.
What Makes Us Different
Looking Ahead
We’re proud of where we’ve come, but even more excited for where we’re going. With plans to grow our catering services, expand our food truck presence, and launch new seasonal menus, we’re just getting started.
But one thing will never change: our commitment to serving food that’s honest, flavorful, and made with love.
Thank You
Whether you’re visiting us for the first time or the fiftieth, we’re honored to have a seat at your table.
