Rishi’s in Slate and Grain on 6 Spinning Wheel Way in Hackbridge first opened in November 2023 and has since then won numerous awards.
The restaurant is located within Brio Button House, a retirement village, but is open to the public and has faced challenges over the years because of its tucked-away location.
(Image: Ezekiel Bertrand) Owner and Executive Head Chef Harish Suresh, also known as Rishi, told Your Local Guardian: “We face a struggle on an everyday basis because we are totally hidden inside Button House.
“Our restaurant isn’t even visible.
“If we were on the High Street, I would say my business would be top-end, because there’s a big difference to my restaurant compared to others.
“But it’s so hidden and on the first floor of Button House, so not too many people notice or are aware that there is a restaurant here.
“So, that’s quite difficult for us, but we still have residents coming in every day and they are our main customers as they eat their lunch and dinner here all the time.”
Rishi comes from the southern coastal region of India near Madras, now called Chennai, a city known for its vibrant culture and history.
He said they are focused on bringing authentic coastal Indian cuisine to the UK, especially dishes from the Chettinad region, which is known for its rich seafood and traditional flavours.
Rishi entered the UK Curry Championships, a prestigious competition that brings together the best chefs from across the country to showcase their skills in creating exceptional curry dishes.
He walked away with gold in the National Curry Chef of the Year category.
He said: “Our Calicut Meen Kuzhambu and Chettinad lamb chops won.
“The lamb chop is completely different to typical lamb chops.
“We marinated it with a paste, and we cooked it until it was tender – not too loose or overcooked.
“So, when you slice it, you can feel the moistness and tenderness in the lamb chop.
“As for the Calicut, it’s been done with the sea bass fillet.
“It’s marinated in a blend of chilli powder, curry leaves, and lemon juice.
“We make a special spice mix by grinding the curry leaves and chilli powder together.
“After marinating, the fish is pan-fried.
“The sauce is a rich base made with coconut cream, chilli powder, and tamarind, which gives it a really nice depth of flavour.”
The winners were announced at Central Bedfordshire College on Thursday, May 29.
Despite the prestigious award, Rishi said there’s no time to celebrate as he had to return to Hackbridge and keep business running, though there are plans for a small party with him and his staff.
Rishi said he has a strong working relationship with his small team of four, which includes his wife and close friends who help run the restaurant.
Rishi’s in Slate and Grain hosts a special night every month that invites residents and the public to step into a new world.
He said: “Every month we do like one or two events.
“Last month, we did a country night, and this month we’re going to do a Hollywood night and a night for Father’s Day.
“We will have live music, a variety of food, and different kinds of menus.
“I love this restaurant, and I really want the people of Hackbridge and Sutton to know about it.”
Rishi’s is open from 12pm to 3pm and 6pm to 10pm from Tuesday to Sunday.
