TAMPA, FL – November 2025 – After nearly a decade of serving Tampa Bay authentic Indian flavors from humble beginnings from a gas station, Curry Leaves Indian Cuisine has officially opened its brand-new flagship restaurant at Westshore Plaza. The multi-award-winning favorite is now the largest Indian restaurant in the region, offering an elevated dining and cultural experience for food lovers across Florida.
Recently featured on Good Life Tampa Bay TV on MOR-TV, the grand-opening segment captured the excitement, community pride, and sensory atmosphere that make Curry Leaves a true Tampa Bay success story. Watch the full feature here:
From Gas Station to Gourmet Destination
What began nine years ago as a modest dream has evolved into a culinary landmark. With a convenient parking garage directly above the restaurant, guests ascend into a space filled with the aromas of India’s rich spices, vibrant décor, music and the energy of a true cultural dining experience.
“Our vision was always to bring people together through authentic flavors from India and warm hospitality,” said Saji Mathew, Owner and Founder of Curry Leaves Indian Cuisine. “After years of searching, we finally found the perfect location. Westshore Plaza allows us to welcome even more guests to enjoy the dishes and culture we love sharing.”
A Modern Vibe with Traditional Heart
Inside, guests are greeted by one of Tampa’s most striking restaurant interiors, a lively bar area, two private dining rooms, and seating for more than 240 guests. The ambience blends upbeat music, signature cocktails, and joyful conversation, creating what Mathew calls “a complete experience, not just a meal.”
Adding to the charm, guests can pose for photos inside a real Indian auto rickshaw, custom-painted in Curry Leaves’ signature colors and logo. Along with the restaurant’s towering elephant mural at the entrance, this feature has quickly become a beloved landmark for families and visitors alike.
Executive Chef Krish Unny, who trained at five-star hotels in India, brings authenticity into every dish. “We make our own spices and ingredients in-house,” said Unny. “Every dish represents the heart of southern India: bold flavors, made fresh daily.”
The Menu, the Buffet & the Buzz
Curry Leaves is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner and has quickly become a weekend favorite for its Saturday and Sunday buffet (11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.). The buffet offers an expansive selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian specialties without ever compromising on quality.
For guests on the go, the restaurant also offers a convenient take-out service featuring the same restaurant-quality dishes, prepared with care and packed for freshness.
A Landmark You Can Ride In
One of the most talked-about features inside Curry Leaves is its authentic Indian auto rickshaw — the colorful, three-wheeled taxi seen throughout India. Custompainted in the restaurant’s colors, it has become a local photo hotspot. “Go ahead, hop in and take a picture,” laughs Mathew. “It’s all part of the fun, culture, and Curry Leaves experience.”
Community Love & Recognition
Over the years, Curry Leaves Indian Cuisine has earned more than ten local awards and was recently recognized by FOX 13 Tampa Bay for excellence in authentic Indian dining. Loyal guests now travel from Orlando, St. Petersburg, and beyond to experience the dishes that have made it one of Florida’s most celebrated Indian restaurants.
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
About Good Life Tampa Bay TV
Good Life Tampa Bay TV, created and hosted by H. John Mejia, spotlights inspiring people, places, and businesses that shape Tampa Bay’s vibrant lifestyle. Seen weekly on MOR-TV, the show has produced more than 90 episodes and received multiple Telly Awards for excellence in television storytelling.
Watch more episodes at https://www.GoodLifeTampaBay.com
Media Contact:
H. John Mejia, TV Host / Producer, Good Life Tampa Bay on MOR-TV