Tuscaloosa’s Sitar to Open New “Express” Location North of River

It will soon be easier than ever to get the legendary taste of Tuscaloosa's Sitar of India hot to go after they open a new "Express" location north of the Black Warrior River.

A spokesperson for the restaurant told the Thread that after 20 years introducing Tuscaloosa to the delights of Indian cuisine, the owners at Sitar are ready to expand and have signed a lease to open a new space in northern Tuscaloosa.

Owner Mandi Pruthi plans to try something new there, in a subdivided portion of what used to be Chang's in Northridge Center at the corner of McFarland Boulevard and Watermelon Road.

Get our free mobile app

As the Thread previously reported, Chang's Chinese restaurant recently closed almost 40 years after opening their first location in Tuscaloosa.

Scott Edwards, a spokesperson for Pruthi, said she will take over half that space, including the drive-thru window, to open their new Sitar Indian Express.

"Get ready for an explosion of flavors with Sitar Indian Express, coming soon! From the culinary masters behind Sitar of India, who've delighted Tuscaloosa with authentic Indian cuisine for 20 years, comes a new venture that brings the vibrant streets of India to your fingertips," Edwards wrote. "Dive into our mouth-watering wraps, bowls, and Indian tacos, all crafted for quick, TO-GO enjoyment. With drive-thru and delivery options, savoring your favorite Indian street foods has never been this easy, exciting, and convenient. Stay tuned for our grand opening and get ready to experience Sitar Indian Express!"

Although the new space will feature a small amount of indoor seating, Edwards said Sitar Express will cater primarily to drive-thru customers and those ordering through delivery apps.

With a more northern base of operations and a menu designed around food staying great long enough to enjoy it at home, Edwards said they hope folks who have never tried Sitar - or even Indian cuisine! - will give it a chance after Sitar Indian Express opens later this year.

For updates on the project and more exclusive coverage of restaurant and retail development in West Alabama, stay connected to the Tuscaloosa Thread.