Mirch Masala to celebrate its 30th year here in Leicester
- LM News
- 4 hours ago
- 4 min read
Mirch Masala celebrates its 30th year here in Leicester.
On the evening of June 17th, Leicester Media was invited to commemorate Masala's 30th anniversary. The special celebration featured music, VIPs, friends and family, and, naturally, exquisite Indian cuisine.
Guests were treated to drinks and canapés, along with a variety of vegetarian main courses served outdoors. Each dish was expertly cooked and presented, with perfectly balanced flavors that left you craving more. The event was well attended, and everyone enjoyed the food and music.
We look forward to returning on a quieter evening to enjoy the inviting atmosphere and try more delicious food.
Mirch Masala, one of Leicester's longest-standing restaurants, is delighted to celebrate its 30th anniversary this year. Established in 1996
Pictures and Video By Leicester Media Online
Mirch Masala presents an exciting blend of flavors in every dish, from spicy biriyanis to Italian-style pizzas with paneer, showcasing the restaurant's innovative spirit and dedication to authenticity.
Situated on the Golden Mile in Belgrave, often referred to as a "mini India" due to its lively Asian community, Mirch Masala has established itself as a cherished culinary destination for Leicester's diverse residents, drawing patrons from Birmingham and London as well.
A Tradition of Genuine Flavors: Mirch Masala was established by the husband-and-wife duo Pradeep and Nisha Popat in 1996.
In the last 30 years, their genuine approach and family values have transformed the restaurant into a welcoming haven for guests.
"For us, Mirch Masala has always been about family and authenticity," states Nisha Popat, co-owner of Mirch Masala (pictured below).
“We started as a small venture with a big idea – bringing vegetarian meals from around the world to Leicester – and the community embraced us.
Thirty years on, we’re now serving children and even grandchildren of our first customers. It’s incredibly heartwarming to know Mirch Masala has been part of so many family traditions“
What began as a novel idea – blending Indian cuisine with international street food – is now a mainstay of Leicester’s food scene. Mirch Masala’s menu spans Indian, Indo- Chinese, Mexican, and Italian dishes, all 100% vegetarian.
Classic samosas share the menu with zesty Hakka noodles and even Indo-Italian pizzas, but every dish stays true to its roots with authentic spices and an Indian flair.
This unique fusion approach made Mirch Masala a trendsetter in the 1990s and keeps it relevant today as diners seek both authenticity and innovation.
Revitalising a Golden Mile Icon Despite its longevity, Mirch Masala has never been complacent. The Popats have continually invested in the restaurant to keep it fresh while preserving its authenticcharm. As part of the thirty year celebrations, the restaurant has been revitalised, creating a warm, colourful and modern ambiance for the next generation of guests.
“We wanted to honour everything people love about Mirch Masala - the colours, the culture, the comfort of eating freshly cooked food - and bring it up to date,” explains Nisha. “It’s still the cosy Mirch Masala everyone knows, but with a fresh look for our 30th year.”
Local food lovers and community leaders have taken notice of Mirch Masala’s enduring presence and the affection is evident – whether it’s long-time customers reminiscing about first visits in the ’90s, or newcomers charmed by the restaurant’s welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere, Mirch Masala has truly become “a true gem in Leicester's dining scene”
Kicking off a Year of Celebrations
To mark its 30th anniversary, Mirch Masala is planning a year-long program of celebrations and special offers throughout 2026. The festivities begin this month with a nod to Veganuary – the annual celebration of plant-based eating each January. In honour of Veganuary and the restaurant’s vegetarian ethos, Mirch Masala has launched a new vegan sharing platter menu filled with creative plant-based delights.
Diners can sample an array of vegan dishes that showcase the kitchen’s flair for innovation with ingredients like jackfruit, tofu, and fresh seasonal vegetables, all spice and prepared in Mirch Masala’s signature style.
“We’ve always been about inclusivity in food,” Nisha Popat notes. “Our Veganuary platter is a fun way to invite everyone -vegans, vegetarians or those looking to make healthier choices in 2026 - to celebrate with us. It’s amazing to see people from all walks of life enjoying our food with an Indian twist.
Looking ahead, Mirch Masala’s
30th anniversary celebrations will crescendo in the summer of 2026 with a special community event (details to be announced).
The Popats hint that the summer festivities will pay tribute to the restaurant’s journey and its loyal patrons, featuring live music, cultural performances, and of course, plenty of food.
Throughout the year, customers can also look forward to monthly anniversary specials, from throwback menus featuring 1990s-favorite dishes to charitable events supporting local causes – a way for Mirch Masala to give back to the community that has supported it over three decades.
As one of Leicester’s longest-running dining establishments, Mirch Masala’s story is a testament to the power of authenticity, family, and community.
“When we first opened, some people thought vegetarian world street food was an odd idea.
Now it’s part of Leicester’s identity,” says Nisha Popat with a proud smile. “This anniversary isn’t just about us – it’s about everyone in this city who has shared a meal and a memory here.”
Location
160 Belgrave Road LE4 5AU Leicester
Telephone 0116 261 0888
E mail info@mirch-masala.co.uk
By Russell Thorpe for Leicester Media Online 17th June 2026
For restaurant reviews, please reach out to Russell Thorpe at Leicester Media
