Fans of Indian food are eagerly awaiting the reopening of one of the region’s leading Indian restaurants, in the middle of a move from Southtown to downtown St. Joseph.
For ten years, ‘Memories of India’ has been a busy, but somewhat hidden establishment at 2945 Niles Avenue, located back from the street hehind the parking lot of Buffalo Wild Wings. Chef/Owner Nelo Fernandes decided to move his restaurant to a more prominent, visible location at 1109 Main Street in the St. Joseph Town Center. That’s the triangle shaped building at the corner of Niles Avenue and Main Streets, anchored by the ATT Wireless store.
Memories of India will open its doors next Tuesday, October 15 in a totally remodeled space that faces Main Street, but extends all the way through, with a dining room looking out on Niles Avenue. Fernandes says ‘Memories’ will be full service, offering Dine-In (with seating for 40), Carry-Out/Pick-up from the spacious entry area on Main, or delivery via Door Dash’s online order system. He is also planning to expand his successful catering operation for special events, weddings, parties and corporate/office activities.
Fernandes is excited about being “closer to the action” in downtown St. Joseph, especially in nine months that St. Joe attracts out of towner’s who are often looking for a different dining experience than they experience in their hometown. He feels the increased visibility and the ‘walk-ability’ of his new location will be a key to real growth for Memories of India.
The restaurant is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream for Nelo Fernandes. He grew up in India and completed extensive culinary education and training there. He began his career working in 5-star hotels in India, followed by a move to America and experience on cruise ships out of Texas. He was working a restaurant job in Grand Rapids when the opportunity arose to open his own restaurant in St. Joseph in 2014.
Fernandes is especially proud of his menu at Memories of India. It focuses on Northern Indian cuisine and features a multitude of fresh ingredients, with recipes and combinations of spices he has created himself.
Asked for recommendations for a first-time diner at ‘Memories’ Fernandes proudly points to his three House Specialties Chicken or Lamb Xacuti [Traditional Goan curry is made with fresh coconut red chillis, poppy seed, special spices, and fresh herbs}, and Shrimp Tikka Marsala {Shrimp cooked in a thick gravy with tomatoes, spices, and fresh herbs}.
Memories of India will offer a full bar upon approval of its pending application by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission, expected in several weeks.
The restaurant will be open six days a week, closed Monday. A daily lunch special will be featured.
Hours: Tues-Fri Lunch 11am-3pm
Dinner 5pm-10pm
Sat-Sun Lunch 12pm-3pm
Dinner: 5pm-10pm
Phone orders/information: 269-281-0450
Email: Eat@memoriesofindiaMI.com
Website: www.MemoriesofindiaMI.com
