A WESTON-based Indian restaurant which has been owned by the same family for over four decades is celebrating 42 years of trading.

The Curry Garden, on Orchard Street, was established in 1982 by one of the original founders, Mr Junab Ali. 

After passing away nine years ago, the business has now been taken over by his sons, Ershad Ali, Ilias and Umar.

Weston Mercury: The restaurant has been in the family for decades.The restaurant has been in the family for decades. (Image: NQ archives)

Restaurant director Ershad explained to the Weston Mercury that, over the years, the business has maintained a strong, loyal customer base, and that a love for The Curry Garden has passed down through the generations.

He said: "It took a long time for us to recover from Covid, but we knew that our customers and friends were going to come to support us.

"The grandchildren from our original customers still come in.

"It's the history of the business that's the main attraction."

Weston Mercury: Inside The Curry Garden.Inside The Curry Garden. (Image: The Curry Garden)Weston Mercury: The business prides itself on serving authentic Indian food.The business prides itself on serving authentic Indian food. (Image: The Curry Garden)

Ershad, who was born in the building and studied a business degree at university, learnt a lot about the business from his father. 

Ershad added: "I learnt a lot from dad.

"We just want to keep the legacy going."

Originally just the one building, in 1987 The Curry Garden purchased one of the buildings next door and expanded.

Weston Mercury: The Curry Garden's old shopfront.The Curry Garden's old shopfront. (Image: The Curry Garden)

When asked what sets the restaurant apart from its competitors, Ershad said that he believes that the traditional, old-style authentic Indian cooking makes them stand out.

The Curry Garden's website expands on this further: "Established since 1982, a traditional Indian greeting awaits you here at The Curry Garden.

"'Namaste', which welcomes the divine in you…experience the finest food, which perfectly combines the ancient traditions and authentic flavours of India.

Weston Mercury: The Curry Garden expanded in 1987.The Curry Garden expanded in 1987. (Image: The Curry Garden)

"Offering a unique dining experience, we strive to serve innovative Indian cuisine in an authentic and contemporary setting, bringing a sense of elegance and sophistication to the restaurant scene in Weston-super-Mare."

The restaurant, which has a five star food hygiene score and outstanding Tripadvisor and google reviews, will continue to flourish and work with the local community in the coming years.

Ershad said that in the future, the business may expand, but no plans have been set in stone as of yet.