Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
A taste from home: My journey as an Indian International Student
My name is Saritha and as an Indian international student living in Leeds, I found the city to be a perfect blend of vibrant culture, friendly people, and, most importantly, a place that could help me recreate the taste of home. Like me, for many international students, food is one of the most comforting connections to our roots, offering a sense of familiarity amidst the excitement and challenges of living in a foreign country. For me, Leeds became not just a place to study, but also a city where I could savour the flavours of India whenever I missed home.
Food has always held a special place in my heart. In India, meals are more than just sustenance — they’re an event, a time for family bonding, laughter, and of course, indulgence in delicious flavours. When I first arrived in Leeds, I was filled with excitement about exploring British culture, but the thought of missing masala dosa, biryani, or a hot cup of chai with friends made me nostalgic. Little did I know, Leeds was going to offer a range of experiences that made this transition smoother.
Exploring the Indian Grocery Stores in Leeds
One of the first things I did after settling into student life was find places where I could get familiar ingredients. Leeds offers a handful of Indian grocery stores that feel like a mini escape back home. Stores like Desi Grocers and Kashmir Supermarket are goldmines for every Indian student craving homemade food. From basmati rice to atta, masalas, and even ready-made rotis, these stores became my go-to spots for recreating the dishes I grew up eating.
The joy of spotting my favourite brand of Maggi noodles or a packet of Parle-G biscuits is indescribable. Even better, I could find fresh vegetables like bhindi, methi, and paneer, which meant I could cook meals that tasted just like mom’s kitchen. It was an immediate stress reliever after a long day of lectures.
Indian Restaurants and Takeaways in Leeds
Though I enjoy cooking, there are days when the comfort of home-cooked food calls for delivery. Thankfully, Leeds boasts a range of Indian restaurants that cater to different regions and tastes of India.
Bundobust, for example, offers Gujarati-inspired street food with a modern twist. Their chaat and dosa are my favourites. Meanwhile, for those craving the richness of North Indian cuisine, Aagrah is a fantastic place to enjoy biryani, butter chicken, and fresh naan that reminds me of the celebratory meals back home.
For those like me who crave South Indian food every other day, Thrissur pooram, tharavadu and kerala restaurant are the one to go. It’s super amazing that many of these restaurants offer Onam Sadhya during the Onam festival.
Celebrating Indian Festivals in Leeds
One of the most special times for me was during Indian festivals. Leeds might be miles away from India, but during Diwali, Holi, and Eid, the city felt like a mini India. The Indian community in Leeds comes alive during these times, with local temples and community centres hosting events, including food stalls serving everything from jalebis to samosas. It was a reminder that home is not just a place but also a feeling you can recreate with people, food, and celebration.
Finding Comfort in Leeds
The food landscape in Leeds has truly been a saving grace in my journey as an international student. Whether it’s a taste of nostalgia through homemade meals, exploring Indian restaurants, or participating in cultural events, Leeds has allowed me to stay connected to my roots while embracing the newness of life in the UK.
Living away from home can be tough, but with every plate of masala dosa or cup of masala chai, I’ve found a way to bring a piece of India with me to Leeds. It’s proof that wherever you go, a taste of home is never too far away if you know where to look.
