Every entrepreneur starts with an idea. Turning that idea into a thriving business takes something more: education, mentorship, community, and the willingness to keep evolving.
For Lokesh Vale, founder of Twisted Indian, that journey has been one of constant growth.
Known for putting a creative spin on traditional Indian cuisine, Twisted Indian first made its mark as a food truck serving dishes like naan tacos, tikka masala burritos, and butter chicken bowls. The concept quickly gained a loyal following by introducing familiar flavors in unexpected ways.
Since completing the Entrepreneurial Academy, Lokesh has continued building on that momentum. Twisted Indian has expanded from its original food truck into a brick-and-mortar restaurant, giving even more customers the opportunity to experience its bold, approachable take on Indian cuisine.
But the growth didn’t stop there.
Today, Lokesh is developing a preservative-free Tikka Masala sauce for retail, bringing Twisted Indian’s signature flavors into home kitchens. He has also co-founded Lucid Coffee & Kava, a new concept that adds another unique gathering space to St. Petersburg’s small business community.
Entrepreneurial Academy is designed for moments like these.
Through an intensive eight-week program, entrepreneurs receive practical business education, mentorship from experienced business leaders, one-on-one business navigation, and a network of peers who understand the challenges of building a business. Participants leave with more than a business plan—they gain relationships, resources, and a support system that continues long after graduation.
For Lokesh, Entrepreneurial Academy became one stop on a much larger entrepreneurial journey. His continued success is a reminder that growing a business isn’t a single milestone—it’s an ongoing process of learning, adapting, and finding new opportunities.
From a food truck to a thriving storefront, from restaurant service to retail products, and from one business to multiple ventures, Lokesh’s story reflects the innovation and resilience found throughout St. Pete’s entrepreneurial community.
We’re proud to celebrate Lokesh and look forward to seeing what’s next for Twisted Indian, Lucid Coffee & Kava, and the many entrepreneurs who continue to grow through Entrepreneurial Academy.