Government welcomes opening of Spice Route Restaurant in Georgetown

The government on Thursday evening welcomed the opening of Spice Route Restaurant and Bar, describing the investment as another positive sign of confidence in Guyana’s growing tourism and hospitality sector.

The Indian themed restaurant and bar, located on Crown Street, Queenstown, Georgetown, is expected to officially open to the public on May 30 2026.

Speaking at the grand opening ceremony and delivering the feature address on behalf of President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali on Thursday evening, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Susan Rodrigues, remarked that the addition of the new restaurants and hospitality ventures continues to strengthen Guyana’s tourism product and diversify the country’s economy.

She noted that more investors are showing confidence in Guyana’s economic future as the country continues to experience rapid growth and increased international interest.

“More and more people are coming to Guyana and investing in Guyana. This is the confidence that is being exhibited when people launch new business ventures here in Guyana,” the minister stated.

Minister Rodrigues said restaurants play an important role in shaping visitors’ experiences, adding that dining establishments offer more than just meals.

“A restaurant is a place that provides more than just a great meal. It provides experiences, it makes connections, and people create memories in these spaces,” she said.

The tourism minister also highlighted Guyana’s rich cultural diversity and evolving culinary landscape, noting that both locals and visitors are increasingly embracing authentic Guyanese cuisine and international flavours.

She explained that travellers are now seeking cultural and culinary experiences, making restaurants an important part of the country’s tourism appeal.

Meanwhile, proprietor Manoj Venkatesan said Spice Route aims to introduce Guyanese to a wider variety of authentic Indian cuisine from different regions of India.

According to Venkatesan, the restaurant offers between 150 and 200 dishes, including both North and South Indian cuisine prepared by a specialised kitchen team.

“We are offering exclusive Indian cuisine from different parts of India. We wanted to bring something new and different for Guyanese to experience,” he explained.

He said the restaurant also features a vintage Indian-inspired theme designed to reflect India’s heritage and culture, with décor and furnishings crafted and imported from India over six months.

Among the restaurant’s signature dishes is venison vindaloo, which Venkatesan described as a unique fusion of Indian flavours using local ingredients.

The proprietor, who has been living in Guyana for the past seven years and working within the hospitality industry, said Guyana’s rapid economic growth and expanding tourism sector encouraged him to invest in the country.

He also expressed confidence that Guyanese would embrace the new culinary experience being offered at Spice Route.

The grand opening ceremony featured cultural performances and was attended by government officials, members of the diplomatic community, business representatives and guests.

(Department of Public Information)