A popular curry house is entering a new chapter under fresh management, with its new owner promising continuity for customers while building on the restaurant’s reputation.
Mumbai Kitchen in Tiverton is now operating under new ownership, with restaurateur Jamal Uddin Ahmed taking over the day-to-day running of the business.
Jamal said he officially began running the restaurant last week and is currently working to establish the new operation.
He said: “I have been running the restaurant since last week. At this minute, Maroof is here to help me for a short while, but he will make his way. He’s just helping me set up the new business.”
Jamal brings previous experience in the restaurant trade, having run Masala in Barnstaple around ten years ago. He also currently runs a takeaway in Taunton called Indian Kitchen.
He added that he would now be overseeing the restaurant following a challenging period for the business.
Jamal said: “The restaurant has suffered in recent months with a lot of stuff, which I don’t need to go into details about, but from now on I’ll be managing Mumbai Kitchen.”
Long-serving team member Maroof will continue supporting the restaurant during the transition period.
Jamal said: “Maroof will support me through this process, and he will still be about to look after the customers.
“He’s been here a long time and built a reputation with his customers, so helping me out until he moves on.
“The food and service will still be of a high standard.”
He added: “Marof is not so well, so he needs a break and not to be working seven days a week, so it’ll be nice for him as well.”
The new owner also confirmed plans to apply for a new alcohol licence for the premises.
The move follows a previous decision by Mid Devon District Council’s licensing committee to revoke the restaurant’s alcohol licence after immigration officials reported finding individuals working at the premises without the correct paperwork allowing them to work in the UK.
During the hearing, the licence holder Joy Abraham told councillors he had handed day-to-day responsibility for licensing matters to Jamal Uddin Ahmed who has now taken ownership permanently.
