UK's Oldest Indian Restaurant Faces Closure After 100 Years Despite Massive Petition
The UK's oldest Indian restaurant, Veeraswamy, could be forced to close its doors at its current location after nearly a century of operation, despite a significant public outcry and a petition with over 20,000 signatures. The restaurant, which first opened in 1926 at Victory House on London's Regent Street, is being evicted as the building's owner, The Crown Estate, plans a comprehensive refurbishment to convert the space into modern offices.
Petition Delivered to Buckingham Palace
This week, protesters gathered outside Buckingham Palace to deliver the petition, calling on King Charles to intervene and save what they describe as "a symbol of Indo-British cultural connections." The petition urges the King to protect this "historic institution" and preserve it as "a living piece of shared cultural history." While King Charles has historically advocated for community causes, The Crown Estate clarified that the restaurant is not his private property, and he has no direct management role in the assets.
Historic Legacy and Community Impact
Veeraswamy has served thousands of diners over the decades, including notable figures such as Charlie Chaplin, Marlon Brando, and Sir Winston Churchill. As one of the oldest occupants on Regent Street, its potential closure represents a devastating loss for the local community and London's culinary heritage. In an open letter to The Times, chefs emphasized that "heritage cannot be relocated, nor can history be replaced," arguing that keeping Veeraswamy open is essential for London's reputation as a global dining and tourist destination.
Crown Estate's Stance and Legal Battle
The Crown Estate stated that, after reviewing alternative proposals from the restaurant's owner, MW Eat, there is "no alternative scheme" that meets their responsibilities as stewards of the heritage-listed building, legal obligations, and duty to manage public money. Profits from the estate are handed to the Treasury, with a portion funding the royal family via a sovereign grant. MW Eat chairman Ranjit Mathrani, 81, expressed shock at the decision, noting that just a year earlier, he was asked about expanding the premises.
Hope Remains as Court Hearing Looms
Despite the grim outlook, the restaurant's owners and supporters have not given up hope. A final decision will be made at a court hearing in June. If the court rules in favor of Veeraswamy, it could extend its lease for another 14 years, leveraging its status as a protected tenancy with enhanced rights for long-term tenants. This legal battle highlights the tension between modernization efforts and the preservation of cultural landmarks in urban development.
