When asking yourself about something to do near me in Sunnyvale with a group of friends or family, consider
Surmai
Why Surmai is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Surmai is a renowned Indian restaurant that offers a warm and inviting atmosphere ideal for meeting up with friends. Located in Mumbai, it features a diverse menu that highlights authentic Indian cuisine with a focus on traditional dishes like flavorful curries, aromatic biryanis, and crispy appetizers. Guests can enjoy specialties such as the Paplet Thali, a traditional meal featuring fried pomfret fish accompanied by rice, dal, vegetables, and pickles, as well as the Special Thali, which provides a comprehensive sampling of Indian dishes including breads, rice, curries, and desserts. The restaurant caters to a variety of palates with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, including the popular Konkani Chicken Masala, making it an excellent choice for groups seeking to explore rich regional flavors together. The ambiance is enhanced by outdoor seating and a transgender-safe space, promoting comfort and inclusivity for all visitors. Surmai also supports convenient dining experiences with lunch and dinner services, counter service, and the option to make reservations, allowing for flexible planning in social gatherings. The venue combines traditional culinary craftsmanship with an approachable setting, making it a great place to enjoy memorable meals with friends while savoring authentic Indian dishes.
Here's what people think of Surmai
As of recent, Surmai holds a 4.6-star rating based on 1053 reviews.
User reviews of Surmai consistently praise the restaurant for its authentic taste and generous portions, making it a favorite among seafood and Indian cuisine enthusiasts. Many visitors highlight the fresh ingredients and the traditional flavors that reflect the essence of Konkani and broader Indian culinary heritage. Positive reviews often mention the welcoming atmosphere, attentive service, and the variety of menu options that cater to different dietary preferences, including vegetarian choices. Many guests also appreciate the smooth payment options through credit and debit cards and the availability of outdoor seating, which enhances the dining experience. On the other hand, some negative reviews point out occasional delays in service and crowding during peak hours, which can affect the overall relaxation and promptness of the dining experience. A few patrons have noted that certain dishes could benefit from slight adjustments in spice levels to better match individual preferences. Nevertheless, these critiques are relatively minor and do not overshadow the overall favorable impression of the restaurant. In conclusion, Surmai's reviews strongly affirm its reputation as a reliable and delightful place to share authentic Indian meals, praised predominantly for its food quality and friendly environment despite some occasional service slowdowns.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Subir Das
We tried this Maharashtrian Coastal Food restaurant in Sunnyvale and were quite happy with the food being served here. The ambience is nothing much to write home about but reasonably clean. We had fried pomfret for starters along with sol kadi and mango lassi. We followed it up with surmai thali, pomfret thali and pandari rassa with rice bhakri as the main dishes. All items were well made and the pomfret fry was a standout. We would have however, liked the rassa in both the surmai and pomfret dishes to be more flavourful and tasty akin to the traditional coastal preparation. The service was quick and efficient!
Chelsea M.
This restaurant was such a welcome discovery! My husband and our friend shared fish and mutton dishes and I ordered the kadai paneer, which was full of flavor. We also enjoyed the Szechuan fried rice (vegetarian version!) with egg on top- it was so beautiful, like a perfect pot pie. It was full of flavors and I love the combination of rice and noodles and how tender but crisp the peppers were. The sauce was 👌🔥. The spice levels were perfect! The naan, soft and buttery. The mango lassi also was a star, that perfectly presented the fragrant flavors of the mango. Some places they are watery, overly sweet or a strange color- not here! Sweet and tangy. At the end we shared butterscotch and alphonso mango ice creams! Super balanced and delicious. I heard they make them in house so you will want to try for yourself! The staff was very nice and helpful, and there are beautiful art panels on the walls with peacocks and egrets. Will keep this place in mind next time we are in the area. 🥰
Chanu Rats
Friday evening was as popular. We arrived early without reservation and got a table in five minutes. We ordered a Super thaali and a fish thaali. Both thaalis arrived together in 15 minutes. Fried prawns were definitely the best tasting dish. Fish was good too (not dry not too oily). Fish thaali came with something in a bowl(probably daal) that didn’t taste good. Super thaali had Tamdra Pandra Rassa and Solkadi. Chicken and Mutton were perfectly cooked. Overall One thaali is more than enough for one person. There is also option to order dishes from menu. Worth visiting at least once.
Vijay J
Great food, really loved the kolambi (tiger prawns) fry. We ordered a paplet thali which was big enough for 2 people, I felt there was some salt missing (not sure if it was just me) But the pomfret was delicious. Will be back to try other recipes. You might have to wait 10-20 mins to get a table if it’s a busy day.
sagar dafle
Being from PNW, Thali at Surmai was one of the best thalis that we had lately. We tried Vegeterian thali and Chicken thali. The rice bhakri was really soft, all curries in the thali were perfect. My wife being from Malvan part of India just loved the chicken thali. We also tried their falooda and that was amazing as well! Definetly looking forward to revisit.
How to reach Surmai
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Why Surmai may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Surmai with your friends?
Gathering with friends is a treasured experience that revolves around shared moments, laughter, and enjoyment—none of which come alive more vividly than over a great meal in an inviting setting. Surmai, a well-reviewed restaurant boasting a 4.6 rating from over 1,000 diners, stands out as an ideal place to rally your friends for a memorable meetup. Located in Sunnyvale, Surmai offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere that immediately makes you feel at home. This is crucial when you're organizing a get-together, as the venue itself sets the tone for conversation and connection. The restaurant’s authentic Maharashtrian seafood cuisine, praised for its rich coastal flavors and diverse menu, appeals to a wide range of tastes—from seafood lovers to vegetarians—making it effortless to cater to any group’s preferences. With a dedication to excellent hospitality and an intimate yet lively dining space, Surmai encourages long, unhurried meals that foster bonding. Its convenient operating hours and various service options also deliver flexibility for groups, whether planning a lunch, dinner, or weekend gathering. All these elements combine to make Surmai not just a spot to eat but a destination where friends create lasting memories around food and fellowship.
What kind of dining experience can groups expect at Surmai?
At Surmai, groups are treated to a vibrant dining experience that balances authenticity and warmth. The restaurant is known for its authentic Maharashtrian and Konkani coastal seafood dishes that are prepared with meticulous attention to flavor and freshness. The highlight dishes such as the Surmai Thali and Paplet Thali provide an ample variety, featuring different fish curries, rice, bhakri (a type of Indian bread), and accompaniments that bring out the unique tastes of the Western coast of India. These thalis are particularly popular among groups because they offer a full meal experience that encourages sharing and tasting multiple dishes together. Beyond meals, the Special Thali includes delicious mutton and chicken options that satisfy non-seafood eaters, while a range of vegetarian dishes ensures everyone in your group is delighted. The menu’s design inherently promotes a communal dining culture, ideal for social interactions among friends. The warm, inviting indoor setting coupled with an option for outdoor seating allows groups to choose an environment that best suits their mood and occasion. Whether it’s a hearty lunch or a relaxed dinner, the attentive service at Surmai ensures that groups feel cared for and valued throughout their meal.
What activities make Surmai perfect for a group meetup?
Surmai offers more than just exceptional food; it creates an environment that enriches group activities and social engagement. One of the most appreciated aspects for groups is the communal dining style with thalis and shared plates, which naturally sparks lively conversations and a sense of togetherness. The restaurant’s calendar-friendly hours from 11 AM to 9 PM, with extended hours on weekends, allow for flexible planning of meetups. Whether your group wants a midday lunch or an evening dinner, Surmai can accommodate. For larger gatherings, Surmai accepts reservations, ensuring that your group can be seated comfortably without long waits, which is essential when trying to manage a group outing smoothly. The option for outdoor seating also opens the possibility for groups who enjoy dining with fresh air and a casual vibe while still savoring authentic Indian dishes. Outside of dining, the ambiance itself—warm lighting, tasteful decor, and a safe, inclusive space known to welcome all, including transgender patrons—makes Surmai a welcoming meetup point where everyone can feel relaxed and included. The restaurant also supports curbside pickup, takeout, and fast service, making it easy for groups that may want to combine a dine-in experience with portions to go or quick arrivals and departures. Together, these features create an accommodating and engaging backdrop perfect for friends or family gatherings.
Why is the food at Surmai a group favorite?
The food at Surmai has earned a reputation as a group favorite due to its authentic and diverse offerings, rich in the vibrant flavors of Maharashtra’s coastal cuisine. The standout feature for group dining is the thali meals—carefully curated platters that offer multiple dishes in one serving, perfect for sharing and sampling a broad range of tastes. The Surmai Thali and Paplet Thali are often singled out for stealing the show, loaded with flavorful seafood cooked in traditional styles that delight both connoisseurs and casual diners. For example, the Kolanbi fry, or fried prawns, features a crispy texture with precise seasoning that seafood lovers find irresistible. Meat options like the mutton dishes in the Special Thali bring bold flavors and variety, widening the menu appeal for non-seafood group members. Vegetarians are equally accommodated with various delectable options, ensuring no one feels left out. The overall freshness and authentic preparation methods help Surmai stand apart, creating a shared culinary journey for groups eager to explore Indian seafood cuisine. This dynamic menu composition and execution make eating at Surmai a delicious, inclusive, and memorable group experience.
What makes Surmai’s atmosphere and service ideal for groups?
Surmai’s atmosphere is designed for comfort and connection, essential ingredients for any successful group outing. The interior combines warm decor choices with cozy seating that allows friends and family to sit close and converse with ease, setting a relaxed mood throughout the meal. The restaurant’s staff is noted for their attentiveness and friendly service, which helps facilitate smooth group dining—ensuring that orders are efficiently managed and all dietary needs or preferences are addressed without hassle. This attentive service allows groups to focus on enjoying their time together rather than worrying about the logistics of dining out. Additionally, Surmai is reputed to be a welcoming and safe space, including transgender-friendly policies, which fosters inclusivity and respect for everyone in your group. The availability of outdoor seating broadens the options for socializing, giving groups a choice between an intimate indoor setting or a breezy outdoor area. All these elements combined make Surmai not just a restaurant but an experience designed to nurture social bonds through comfort, respect, and excellent service.
How easy is it to plan a group meetup at Surmai?
Planning a group meetup at Surmai is straightforward thanks to its accommodating policies and range of service options. The restaurant accepts reservations, which is a major advantage for groups wanting to avoid wait times and guarantee seating, especially during peak hours or weekends. Surmai’s operating hours—from 11 AM to 9 PM on most days and until 10 PM on Fridays and Saturdays—grant flexibility for lunch or dinner plans, including weekend gatherings. For groups with varied schedules or preferences, dining options such as takeout, curbside pickup, and fast service allow some members to enjoy food quickly or off-site if that suits the occasion better. The presence of both indoor and outdoor seating spaces means Surmai can handle varying group sizes and preferences, whether you want a more intimate indoor meal or a lively outdoor chat. Combined with highly rated authentic food, the efficient service, and a warm ambiance, these details lower the barriers for organizing successful meetups, making Surmai a reliable and hassle-free choice for groups looking to connect over delicious cuisine.
Why do reviews consistently recommend Surmai for group dining?
Surmai’s consistently high ratings and enthusiastic customer reviews highlight it as a must-visit for groups seeking authentic Indian and coastal dining experiences. Patrons often mention the welcoming hospitality, which stands out as a defining characteristic compared to other restaurants. The richness of the menu, featuring crowd-pleasers like the Surmai Special Thali and fried prawn dishes, caters well to diverse palates within groups, earning repeated praise for flavor and presentation. Reviewers specifically commend the communal, family-style serving approach, ideal for sharing and socializing. Many testimonials describe the restaurant as a hidden gem—warm, intimate, yet lively—qualities that make it perfect for friends and families to bond over a memorable meal. The restaurant’s focus on a safe and inclusive environment also resonates strongly with customers, enhancing the overall group experience. This positive feedback loop continuously reinforces Surmai’s reputation as not just a place to eat but a preferred destination for group meetups, emphasizing quality food, great service, and a friendly vibe.
What else should groups know before visiting Surmai?
Groups planning to visit Surmai should note that the restaurant is closed on Tuesdays, so any weekend or weekday plans should avoid that day. Reservations are strongly recommended for larger groups to ensure seating availability and a smooth dining experience. Since the restaurant is popular, especially on weekends, arriving on time and confirming bookings can help avoid waits. For those new to Maharashtrian cuisine, trying the thalis is a great introduction to the flavors and variety on offer. Groups should also consider exploring the special seafood offerings like the Kolanbi fry and fish kalvan curry to experience authentic coastal tastes. Surmai's location in Sunnyvale means it is conveniently accessible and relatively close to landmarks like Levi’s Stadium, which can be an added option for groups planning a day out followed by a meal. Overall, being prepared for the bustling, friendly atmosphere and open to trying new dishes will ensure the group’s visit to Surmai is an enjoyable and memorable culinary adventure.
This comprehensive overview highlights why Surmai is an excellent venue for group meetups, combining authentic cuisine, welcoming atmosphere, versatile service, and a shared dining philosophy that strengthens bonds over food and fellowship. For any friend group or family looking to enjoy an enriching and flavorful dining experience in Sunnyvale, Surmai stands out as a hidden gem worth rallying around.