Turmeric Indian Bar & Grill

I was eager to check out this new Indian restaurant which was much needed near my downtown neighborhood. The four of us ordered different selections from their impressive menu.

First the good.... The food is a delight. Their chef is skilled and creative. I ordered tikka masala and chose shrimp as a protein. The ingredients were well balanced and I could taste all the individual flavors in each bite. The fresh shrimp were butterflied and curled. The sauce rich and creamy. It went well with the perfectly cooked naan. My friends choices were just as delicious. I've eaten at most the Indian restaurants in Sarasota and this by far has the best food. Yes, it's that good!

Expected problems with any new restaurant.... Our server was very polite, personable and worked hard to do a good job. He struggled with operating his hand held computer to take our order, made several return trips to make sure our order was correct, brought out part of the order way before the rest of it and had to get help with a change order. It was a clumsy experience but very forgivable considering in the first week of opening. I expect they will get things smoothed out soon.

The not so good.... The all new interior design choice is disappointing for this iconic, vintage building. Lighting is very bright and harsh and the tables and chairs are of modern industrial design. It has an upscale cafeteria vibe. Very odd for an Indian restaurant. The lack of soft design materials makes for poor acoustics. I can see on a busy night it would get very loud. I saw two bars but no alcohol. Let's hope they are just waiting for their liquor license.

Conclusion..... If you are looking for a quiet, romantic, softly lit Indian restaurant with good wine or wonderful Indian beer you will be disappointed. But if you enjoy a clean, bright, modern restaurant with the best Indian food in Sarasota, do go. You will love it! In spite of what I consider shortcomings I will be back as the food is excellent and location is perfect. I wish Turmeric much success. A welcomed addition to downtown Sarasota.

Clean and airy, with amazing food.
We needed it here, a superb Indian food place, we only hope not to have to book 1 month in advance going forward!
It also has an upper floor with terrace, sofas and tables, good for private events.

Food was absolutely delicious! We ordered a different variety of dishes and all tasted fresh and tasty!
Our server Chrstian was very nice, helpful, and attentive.
Will be back again for sure.

This restaurant has been transformed. A bright, cheery updated atmosphere feels welcoming and inviting. Our server, Sahil, was observant and answered all of our questions. The food is so, so good. Rich flavors and many options. Portions are large enough that we have extra for later.

This is by far the best Indian food in Sarasota! The atmosphere is light and modernized. The menu has all of the classics but also a refreshing new take on dishes and flavors! Cannot wait to come back!