✦ Our Story · Our Passion · Our People

About
SOI

Born from the heart of India, served with pride in Syston

SOI Restaurant Atmosphere Indian dish

Who We Are

A Legacy of Authentic Indian Dining

For over 35 years, Spice of India (SOI) has been a cherished part of the Syston community, serving authentic Indian cuisine with passion, tradition, and exceptional hospitality. Founded by local entrepreneur Atulkumar (Atul) Dawda, our restaurant has built a reputation for delivering unforgettable dining experiences and consistently outstanding food.

From intimate family dinners to celebrations, corporate gatherings, and special occasions, SOI offers welcoming spaces designed for every event. Our restaurant features a stylish bar and lounge area, a spacious main dining room, dedicated party spaces, and a fully equipped function room for larger events and private functions.

Our menu combines beloved Indian classics such as Jalfrezi, Bhuna, Rogan Josh, and Shashlick Sizzlers with carefully crafted Chef's Specials inspired by regional flavours and traditional recipes. Whether dining in, ordering takeaway, arranging delivery, or booking our catering services, guests can always expect authentic flavours, quality ingredients, and warm hospitality.

Discover Our Menu
Fresh Ingredients

We source the finest fresh produce daily — local British ingredients married with imported Indian spices and essentials, because flavour begins with quality.

Authentic Recipes

Every recipe is rooted in genuine Indian tradition, refined through decades of cooking and a deep respect for regional flavours, untouched by shortcuts or compromise.

Warm Hospitality

At SOI, every guest is treated like family. The warmth, attention, and care we extend to every table reflects our deep commitment to genuine Indian hospitality.

Sustainable Practice

We are committed to reducing our footprint — seasonal menus, minimal waste, and partnerships with ethical UK suppliers.

35+
Years Serving Syston
80+
Signature Dishes
50K+
Happy Guests Served
4.9★
Average Guest Rating

Our Journey

A Story Written
in Flavour

From a family passion to one of Syston's most beloved restaurants — every step guided by a deep love of food, community, and the rich culinary heritage of India.

Indian Spices
1989
The Beginning

Spice of India opened its doors in Syston, founded by Atul Dawda with a heartfelt mission: to bring authentic Indian flavours and genuine hospitality to the local community.

1995
Community Favourite

SOI became a household name in Syston, celebrated for its consistently outstanding curries and the warmth that kept guests returning year after year.

2005
Expanding the Experience

The restaurant grew to include a dedicated function room and event spaces, welcoming private parties, corporate gatherings, and special celebrations.

2012
Chef's Specials Launch

A new chapter of culinary creativity — Chef's Specials inspired by regional Indian recipes brought fresh excitement to the menu and delighted long-time guests.

2018
Takeaway & Delivery

SOI expanded its reach with a full takeaway and delivery service, bringing beloved Indian classics into homes across the Syston and Leicestershire area.

2025
35 Years & Beyond

Celebrating over three decades of authentic Indian dining, SOI continues to honour its founding values — quality, tradition, and the warmth of genuine hospitality.

"Rooted in tradition, driven by passion — SOI exists to share the honest, vibrant flavours of authentic Indian cuisine with every guest who walks through our doors."

— SOI Restaurant Philosophy

Founder & Owner

Meet Atulkumar Dawda

Atulkumar Dawda
Atulkumar (Atul) Dawda
Founder & Managing Director

For more than 35 years, Atulkumar (Atul) Dawda has been the driving force behind Spice of India, transforming it into one of Syston's most respected and long-standing restaurants. His passion for authentic Indian cuisine, commitment to exceptional hospitality, and dedication to the local community have earned the trust and loyalty of generations of guests.

Under his leadership, Spice of India has become renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, consistently high-quality food, and memorable dining experiences. Atul continues to uphold the values upon which the restaurant was founded — quality, tradition, and outstanding customer service.

Recognition

Awards & Accolades

2015 · 2018 · 2022
Top Indian Restaurant
Leicestershire Food Awards
2019
Best Authentic Indian
East Midlands Restaurant Awards
2021 · 2023
Sustainable Restaurant
Sustainable Restaurant Association
2020 – 2024
4.9★ Traveller's Choice
TripAdvisor

Come Experience SOI

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