Curry Mantra Team Hunts Arlington Real Estate for New Concept
Posted by Stefanie Gans, Dining Editor / Monday, April 23rd, 2012
Only a couple weeks ago Asad Sheikh completed a two-month expansion of his Fairfax restaurant Curry Mantra. Expanding from 65 to 125 seats, however, is not the only idea Sheikh has for this year.
Sheikh is looking for spaces in the Rosslyn-Ballston corridor and hopes to open two new storefronts with the same concept: Curry Mantra Express. ”I don’t think there is a good version of Indian carryout,” says Sheikh of his decision to move to a more casual menu for the lunch crowd in Arlington. Curry Mantra Express will offer about 20 menu items, including a lunch box special: rice, bread and two curries (one vegetarian, one non-vegetarian) for $9.45.
The original Curry Mantra earned a spot on Northern Virginia Magazine’s 2011 Best Restaurant list and is known for its geographically diverse dishes, highlighting cuisine throughout the subcontinent.
Sheikh expects to open both carry-out locations by the end of 2012.
Photo: Jonathan Timmes
Tags: Asad Sheikh, Curry Mantra, Curry Mantra Express, Gut Check, Northern Virginia, Northern Virginia Magazine, NoVA, Stefanie Gans