Copyright Staten Island Advance
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Starting on Monday, Oct. 20, the five-day Festival of Lights, rooted in Hindu tradition, symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Celebrations include lighting lamps to invite the goddess Lakshmi, decorating homes with rangoli, and sharing festive meals. While primarily a Hindu holiday, Diwali is also observed by Sikhs, Jains, and Buddhists. Recognition of the holiday is growing across the United States, with New York public schools now closed on Diwali. Staten Island’s Indian and Sri Lankan residents mark the occasion with cultural traditions and cuisine, offering locals a chance to explore the flavors of the subcontinent. Sri Lankan food shares many similarities with Indian cooking — think curries, rice dishes, and spice-forward flavors — but tends to be lighter and less rich. Whether you’re celebrating Diwali or simply curious about the cuisine, here’s a guide to some of Staten Island’s standout Indian and Sri Lankan restaurants. Also check out the St. George Library Center — 5 Central Ave., St. George — on Thursday, Oct. 16, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. for a free Diwali-themed reading and craft session for children ages 8 and younger. The hour includes lantern-making and rangoli design activities. Where to eat in the spirit of Diwali Ceylon Curry — 324 Victory Blvd., Tompkinsville; 347-466-5338 — A small, casual eatery with a brisk to-go business and most dishes priced at $18 or less. Features a separate dining room for table service and private parties of up to 30 guests. The newly configured space includes an open kitchen. Hylan Curry & Grill — 1476 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island; 718-524-4608; hylancurryandgrill.com — A quiet restaurant featuring Indian, Nepali, and Asian fusion with bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Known for momo dumplings, tikka masala, and samosas. Offers dine-in, takeout, and catering. Formerly Indian Xpress 2, the restaurant is located in the former Trattoria Romana space. Lakruwana — 668 Bay St, Stapleton; 347-857-6619; lakruwanarestaurant.com — The most formal of Staten Island’s Sri Lankan restaurants, offering sit-down dining in a charming space with takeout available. Features an all-you-can-eat weekend buffet from 12:30 to 9:30 p.m. for $15.95. Known for mullagatawny soup, lampries, biriyani, Kottu Roti, hoppers, and house-made desserts like watalappan and Mango Mousse. Masala Harbor — 323 Victory Blvd, Tompkinsville; 718-420-0919 — The former Dosa Garden is now under new ownership. This cozy spot offers South Indian specialties, with wine and bottled beer available. Rear parking lot. New Asha Sri Lanka Restaurant — 322 Victory Blvd, Tompkinsville; 718-420-0649; newasharestaurant.com — Authentic Sri Lankan cuisine served in a family-run setting. Popular for flavorful curries, fish buns, and allergy-friendly options. Closed on Tuesdays and the fresh-made roti bread is a “must.” Made from scratch, the bread should be ordered ahead for more than six pieces at a time. Randiwa — 1405 Richmond Ave, Bulls Head; 718-477-1044; Whereyoueat.com — Unassuming spot just off the Staten Island Expressway offering Indian and Sri Lankan cuisine. The Sunday buffet runs noon to 10 p.m. for $18.99. Highlights include hoppers, whole rotisserie chicken, whole fried fish, and the spicy-sweet “Spicy Sizzler.” It’s closed on Mondays but otherwise open from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sagara Food City— 98 Victory Blvd, Tompkinsville; 718-285-4556; Facebook: Sagara Food City — Take-out-only Sri Lankan spot known for bold flavors and a personal touch. Owners Sagara and Anuradha Hewabajgamage prepare daily specials, bake fresh bread in-house, and offer customizable levels of heat to otherwise fiery dishes like “deviled” shrimp. Spice Rack — 1791 Victory Blvd., Staten Island, 718-273-5843; spicerackstatenisland.com — Very new, fast-casual Indian takeout and delivery spot located inside Island Grocery spice market. Becoming known for flavorful halal dishes like chicken tikka, goat curry, and palak paneer. Offers customizable spice levels and fresh naan. House specialties include biryani and clay oven-grilled tandoori chicken. Taste of India II — 287 New Dorp Lane, New Dorp; 718-987-4700; tasteofindia2.com —Staten Island’s first Indian restaurant, offering traditional North Indian dishes, a full bar, and catering services. Victory Halal Food & Grocery — 1891 Victory Blvd, Staten Island; 718-448-2922; victory-halal-food.ueniweb.com — Halal butcher and grocery offering Indian and Pakistani staples, fresh meats, and specialty imports. Family-run with delivery available.
