A beloved San Diego institution known for its diverse array of curry dishes from around the globe, World Curry restaurant has announced that it will be closing its doors in Pacific Beach at the end of 2024.
World Curry was founded in San Diego's Pacific Beach neighborhood in 1995 by Momoko Jackson and her late husband Bruce after they were inspired by their travels across Thailand, Hong Kong, and Singapore. They sought to bring the rich flavors of curry from various cultures back to Bruce's home town of San Diego, creating a casual and welcoming space that would introduce locals to a wide array of curry styles.
The Jacksons, though not from a formal culinary background, shared a deep passion for food and curry. Bruce, in particular, was known for his ability to take traditional curry recipes and add his own personal touch, making the dishes approachable and delicious without being overly spicy or intimidating to newcomers.
World Curry’s menu became a reflection of their global travels, featuring curries from Thailand, India, Japan, and other regions, alongside a variety of complementary dishes such as roti, samosas, naan, and yakitori skewers. The restaurant also became known for offering customizable spice levels, ensuring that diners could enjoy their meals at the heat intensity that suited them best.
Recently managed by their son Max Jackson, World Curry has continued to be a family-run establishment even after Bruce’s passing in 2022. However, in a heartfelt announcement, Max and his mother, Momoko (Momo), explained that after much reflection, the time had come to close this chapter.
In the announcement shared on social media, the Jackson family expressed their deep gratitude to the loyal customers and dedicated employees who made the restaurant's 29-year run possible. They noted that starting on September 16, the restaurant would no longer serve lunch, with new hours from 4-9pm as they prepare for their final months of operation. While the exact closing date has yet to be confirmed, World Curry will continue to operate for dinner until the end of the year.
For those who have frequented the restaurant or discovered it more recently, World Curry has been a beloved part of the Pacific Beach community, not only for its delicious food but also for the warmth and passion behind its operation. The Jackson family’s message emphasized that World Curry was a story of love - between family, culture, and community - and they will forever treasure the memories shared with their customers.
The Jacksons, though not from a formal culinary background, shared a deep passion for food and curry. Bruce, in particular, was known for his ability to take traditional curry recipes and add his own personal touch, making the dishes approachable and delicious without being overly spicy or intimidating to newcomers.
World Curry’s menu became a reflection of their global travels, featuring curries from Thailand, India, Japan, and other regions, alongside a variety of complementary dishes such as roti, samosas, naan, and yakitori skewers. The restaurant also became known for offering customizable spice levels, ensuring that diners could enjoy their meals at the heat intensity that suited them best.
Recently managed by their son Max Jackson, World Curry has continued to be a family-run establishment even after Bruce’s passing in 2022. However, in a heartfelt announcement, Max and his mother, Momoko (Momo), explained that after much reflection, the time had come to close this chapter.
In the announcement shared on social media, the Jackson family expressed their deep gratitude to the loyal customers and dedicated employees who made the restaurant's 29-year run possible. They noted that starting on September 16, the restaurant would no longer serve lunch, with new hours from 4-9pm as they prepare for their final months of operation. While the exact closing date has yet to be confirmed, World Curry will continue to operate for dinner until the end of the year.
For those who have frequented the restaurant or discovered it more recently, World Curry has been a beloved part of the Pacific Beach community, not only for its delicious food but also for the warmth and passion behind its operation. The Jackson family’s message emphasized that World Curry was a story of love - between family, culture, and community - and they will forever treasure the memories shared with their customers.
Pacific Beach residents and curry lovers alike are encouraged to visit World Curry before its closure to experience one last meal and share in the rich history of this much-loved culinary destination.
World Curry is located at 1433 Garnet Avenue in San Diego's Pacific Beach. For more information, visit worldcurry.com.
