The kitchen in the Golden Cinnamon Indian Cuisine restaurant is cooking up delicious food for the people of Airdrie this August, while working to give back to the community at the same time.
Starting Aug. 3, 10 per cent of the proceeds from every dish served at the restaurant on Tuesdays will be donated to a local charity, as part of an initiative titled Curry For a Cause.
The restaurant – which opened its doors in Stonegate back in April – boasts numerous elements that likely contributed to the buzz and rave reviews that followed suit. These include the use of fresh fruits and vegetables to craft their dishes, attention to detail, and a true love and appreciation for Indian cuisine. Golden Cinnamon also offers take out, dine-in and online orders.
Restaurant partner Hari Gowda, who has more than 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, said Curry For a Cause is the business’ way of showing the community they are thankful for all the support they received when they first opened in Airdrie, particularly due to the hardships brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“When we were in a hard time, they [helped] us by doing business. So, we want to give it back,” Gowda said.
Gowda said he immigrated to Canada from India just over two years ago – initially landing in Lethbridge, Alta. With no job and few funds, he said he relied on community support systems like the local food bank to get him through his day-to-day life.
“I had to take help from the community,” he said, “We know that there is always hard times on both ends. But we’ve got support from them and now we’re in a position to help.”
The support he received from that community is what inspired him to give back to his new home of Airdrie. He said he recognizes his business wouldn’t have survived the pandemic without the help of the community, and now it is time for him to return the favour.
Whether you order some samosas or pakoda to start, some tikka masala or butter chicken as your main dish, an order of naan or rice pudding for dessert, a portion of your bill will be used to support an organization in the community.
Gowda said the first charity that will receive the funds raised from Curry for a Cause will be the Airdrie Food Bank, likely followed by the Airdrie and District Victims Assistance Society.
Since moving to Airdrie from Lethbridge a few months ago, Gowda has been appreciative of the support he has received from his new community. He added he is looking forward to meeting all of the great people that call the city of Airdrie home.
According to Gowda, the plan is to run the event for approximately one year, in order to donate sufficient money to each of the chosen charities.
You can visit the restaurant located just off of Veteran’s Boulevard and Main Street, on their Facebook page at bit.ly/3iqbKKz, their Instagram page at bit.ly/3xSrBYO or their website, goldencinnamon.ca
