A well-known Indian restaurant chain is set to serve thousands of free curries in the lead-up to Christmas.
Sunshine Coast Bombay Bliss eateries and sister outlet Leela will provide 3000 to 4000 dishes on Monday, December 23, to thank locals for their support during the year.
The initiative comes after a new diner opened at Sippy Downs.
Customers will be able to enjoy a complimentary takeaway butter chicken or aloo masala at restaurants at Caloundra, Maroochydore, Coolum, Tewantin and Sippy Downs, and at Leela at Noosa, from 11.30am to 2pm.
Krishna Pathak, who manages all local venues, was “thrilled to bring Free Curry Day back”.
“Our success is thanks to our community,” he said.
“Giving away meals is our way of showing gratitude and making the holiday season a little brighter for everyone.
“We know that times can be tough, especially during Christmas, and sharing food is our way of spreading love, joy, and connection.
“It’s also a reflection of what Indian hospitality is all about: sharing and generosity.”
Mr Pathak explained how Free Curry Day started.
“When the first (Sunshine Coast Bombay Bliss) store at Caloundra reached its 10-year milestone (in 2018), I put on a big dinner with live music to celebrate, inviting all our loyal customers, friends and suppliers as a way to say thank you to them for their incredible support over the years,” he said.
“The response and gratitude from this were so incredibly positive.
“From there, the concept grew … it’s now become a tradition.”
This year’s event coincides with the opening of a new store at Sippy Downs on December 16, and the recent refurbishment of the store at Maroochydore.
Mr Pathak said Sippy Downs was an ideal location for Bombay Bliss.
“It’s a growing area with a mix of families, students, and professionals, so we felt it was the perfect spot to bring our authentic flavours and warm dining experience to even more people,” he said.
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Leela was also opened this year.
Mr Pathak said there should be some new dishes for customers next year.
“Our goal for 2025 will be focusing on strengthening our existing stores, we are committed to maintaining the quality and experience our customers love,” he said.
“We also have some exciting new ideas to bring into the menu: traditional Indian options and some modern fusion to broaden our customers’ taste buds and experience.”
Up to 100 people are employed at Bombay Bliss stores and Leela.