Popular Indian restaurant set to embark on new chapter

A popular Indian restaurant near Derby is undergoing a major refurbishment and will reopen next week as Kitchen 7.

Tandoori Nights, in Shardlow, closed for a complete renovation in May.

Now, it is to reopen as Kitchen 7 on Tuesday 6 August, as owner, Ali Khan, hands over the reins to his son Hamza and nephew Haris – both of whom have grown up with the family-run restaurant.

As Tandoori Nights, the business welcomed guests for three decades. As Kitchen 7, the newly designed 140-seater restaurant will serve contemporary Indian cuisine.

The reenergised space is being given a modern interior design with a fresh contemporary feel to maintain the restaurant’s welcoming ambience.

It will feature updated décor, comfortable seating and improved lighting.

Kitchen 7 will have four separate dining areas, including one for private dining, which will seat up to 20 guests.

Renovated kitchen facilities will support an expanded menu, featuring new dishes such as soft-shell crab and nizami murgh.

Ali said: “It has been an incredible journey watching our restaurant grow and become part of so many lives.

“We have many customers who have been coming to use since we first opened, and we have grown to be friends with so many families.

“We know their names, what they do and have a close relationship with them.

“Passing the business on to Hamza and Haris is a proud moment for me.

“Their passion and fresh ideas will ensure that Kitchen 7 continues to thrive for decades to come.”

Hamza said: “We’ve learned so much from dad over the years. We’re committed to honouring his vision while bringing in new ideas and improvements that reflect our customers’ evolving tastes and preferences.

“Shardlow is in a fantastic position – not far from Derby, just 15 minutes from Nottingham and 20 minutes from Leicester and we think people will definitely travel for the kind of food we intend to serve.”

According to Hamza, there are plans to open further sites across the Midlands.

He said: “We are already looking at some sites in other cities and hope that Kitchen 7 will be an upmarket brand that people come to associate with phenomenal food and exceptional service.

“With a commitment to quality, innovation and authenticity, we are creating a dining destination that celebrates the best of Indian culture in a modern context.”