From a Food Truck in Amsterdam to Two Beloved Indian Restaurants

In the spring of 2019, the aroma of simmering spices drifted through the Albert Cuyp Market of Amsterdam, drawing curious noses and hungry hearts to a modest food truck. Inside stood Tika Maya, a determined woman with a passion for cooking and a heart full of dreams. Armed with family recipes passed down through generations and a deep love for Indian and Nepalese flavors, she opened the doors — or rather, the hatch — to what would become a remarkable culinary journey.

Tika’s food truck wasn’t flashy. It didn’t need to be. What set it apart was the soul she poured into every dish — from spiced samosas and buttery curries to warm naan and fragrant chai. Word of mouth spread quickly. Locals, expats, and tourists alike lined up not just for the food, but for the warmth and authenticity that Tika served with every meal.

But her journey wasn’t without challenges. Running a food truck in a bustling city like Amsterdam meant long hours, unpredictable weather, and the constant hustle of working alone. Still, she persisted. Her dream had always been bigger: to create a space where people could not only eat Indian food, but experience it — the way it’s cooked, shared, and celebrated at home.

That dream took its next step in Krommenie, a small town where she opened the first Darjeeling Restaurant. It was a leap of faith — from wheels to walls, from street service to sit-down dining. Tika designed the space to feel like a slice of India: warm colors, traditional music, and a menu that blended classic dishes with personal touches. The community embraced it, and the restaurant quickly gained a loyal following.

What began as a single food truck now had roots — and it didn’t stop there.

In 2025, Tika opened her second restaurant in the heart of Alkmaar, on the historic Mient Street, right beside the canal. With a spacious terrace and a fine dining experience, the new Darjeeling Restaurant offers a fusion of elegance and tradition. It’s a place where you can taste the spice of the streets and the comfort of a home-cooked meal in the same bite.

Through her journey, Tika Maya has become more than a chef or a businesswoman — she’s a storyteller, using food as her language. Each dish tells a tale of heritage, migration, passion, and perseverance. From a food truck window to two thriving restaurants, Tika continues to honor her roots while building a flavorful future.

And for her, this is just the beginning.