Delayed Saffron Summer restaurant to finally open

Saffron Summer, a sister restaurant to the eponymous Indian fine dining restaurant in Chessington, is to open in Reigate in Surrey tomorrow (14 July).

The restaurant which occupies the site of the former Clove restaurant at 15 Church Street in Reigate, had originally been due to open in March, before the Covid-19 lockdown.

The kitchen will be led by executive head chef Awanish Roy, who transfers from the Chessington branch. 

Roy trained at the internationally renowned Oberoi Hotels in India, before moving to London to work in the famous Cinnamon Club, Roti Chai and Chai Ki restaurants in London.

The restaurant, which will have to operate at 50% capacity, to maintain social distancing, had planned an “extensive” marketing campaign with a special VIP launch dinner for.  

The restaurant said a “rigorous” sanitising regime is in place and staff will wear masks and gloves, with customers will be offered hand sanitisers on arrival.

Owner Ralph Sousa said: “I came and researched the area, loved the vibe and am convinced the locals will appreciate our unique modern take on classic regional dishes from the sub continent.

“Although we’ve had a long delay, as a country we cannot all stay in lockdown forever and we all need to help kick start the economy and support our suppliers.”