Surjit Singh Mattu plays a part in one of our holiday traditions. When our daughters and their families come back to Dayton they must have at least one meal from his restaurant, Amar India (2751 Miamisburg Centerville Road). Amar was a favorite of our daughters when they were young. They’ve eaten in many other Indian restaurants since leaving home, but when they are in Dayton they must return to Amar.
During my last visit to the restaurant I learned a little about Mr. Mattu. He came to Dayton in 1984. He chose Dayton because his brother-in-law was teaching at U.D. and he wanted to be close to family.
When he first came to the U.S. from India, Mr. Mattu was an electrician. But he started to work in restaurants on the side and liked it. He opened Amar India in 1991 and now also owns two other Indian restaurants in Dayton – one in Beavercreek and one on Miller Lane, north of downtown.
On the wall at Amer India there is a newspaper article about Mr. Mattu. I love what he said when the newspaper asked what advice he would give to other immigrant business owners.
“You must adapt and embrace the culture you are in now. Make it better by incorporating the culture you brought in. That’s the real America. America is a better and prosperous nation because different cultures created an awesome society.”
At Amar India Restaurant, we believe that a buffet is often the best way to get acquainted with a new cuisine, as compared to going for the a la carte option. Our buffet services are available 7 days a week.
2751 Miamisburg Centerville Rd.
Dayton, Ohio 45459
(937) 439-9005
Hours:
Also visit their sister restaurant:
Jeet India