Suriname, a small South American country, might not be on everyone’s radar, but its culinary influence has found a home in Orlando. Nestled at the corner of Lee and OBT, the Grand Roopram Roti Restaurant brings the vibrant flavors of Surinamese cuisine to life. This hidden gem, part of a chain rooted in Suriname and the Netherlands, offers a unique dining experience that blends Indian, Indonesian, African, Chinese, and Dutch traditions.
The Rosemont outpost of Roop opened its doors in April, introducing Orlando to the soul-satisfying eats that have been a staple for over half a century. The restaurant’s name, Roop is a nod to the roti an unleavened flatbread that plays a central role in Surinamese cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious newcomer, Roop’s menu promises a delightful exploration of flavors.
The Art of Roti and Beyond
Roop’s menu is a celebration of Surinamese street food, with a focus on roti and its various accompaniments. The restaurant offers a range of starters, including traditional phulourie ($2.99), Indian-inspired split-pea fritters that are as addictive as hushpuppies, and barra a spiced fried lentil dough. The barra with saltfish ($9) is a street food staple, offering a lovely crunch-and-give with nicely spiced fish.
For the main event, Roop’s signature roti curry chicken ($13) is a comforting favorite. The curry is mellow and Maggi-forward, with tender and ample chicken that feels like a home-cooked meal. However, the roti curry goat ($20) stands out with its richer gravy and just-right gamy flavor. The meat is tender enough to swirl in your mouth and loosen from the bone, making it a must-try. The roti bread that accompanies both dishes is soft, hot, flaky, and perfect for scooping up every last bit of flavor.
Exploring Surinamese-Chinese Fusion
The culinary landscape of Suriname and the Dutch Caribbean share similarities, but Surinamese cuisine pulls deeper from its Chinese roots. This is evident in dishes like tjauwmin and fried rice. Portions labeled as “small” ($8.99) are anything but, and come topped with a roasted chicken leg. The tjauwmin is a mound of thin egg noodles slicked in a deeper, sweeter, and more complex sauce than its chow mein namesake, buoyed by soy, five-spice, and the smokiness of BBQ pork. Both the tjauwmin and the fried rice are similarly flavored and equally enjoyable.
Another standout dish is the turmeric fried chicken ($2.50 for a breast). At first glance, it might seem thick and lacking in turmeric, but the batter is actually thin, locking in wonderfully moist bird and a burst of woody, earthy spice. One of our tablemates even remarked, “My mustache smells like turmeric and I love it.” It’s easy to see why Roop has garnered a devoted following.
A Culinary Journey Worth Taking
Roop’s slogan, “Roti from Roop always tastes good.” holds true. The restaurant offers generous and affordable food that is simple, tasty, and true to its origins. It’s a refreshing antidote to the fast-paced, often overly complicated culinary trends of our times. Whether you’re a fan of Surinamese cuisine or just looking to try something new, Roop is a destination worth visiting.
For those eager to embark on this culinary journey, the Grand Roopram Roti Restaurant is located at 3200 Parkway Center Court. You can reach them at 407-420-0306 or visit their website at. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the rich flavors of Suriname right here in Orlando.
