Well-known Durham restaurant site reopens as Veera - here's what to expect

A well-known Durham restaurant site has entered a new chapter.

The former Alishaan Durham site, which is passed by thousands every day on the corner of North Road, Durham City, has opened its doors as Veera.

Mayor of Durham Gary Hutchinson cutting the red ribbonplaceholder image
Mayor of Durham Gary Hutchinson cutting the red ribbon | Submitted

The new addition to the city opened its doors this week, on June 2, following an extensive transformation under new ownership.

The Mayor of Durham, Councillor Gary Hutchinson, marked the occasion by cutting the ceremonial red ribbon at a special grand opening event attended by guests, local business representatives and supporters of the new venture.

Councillor Hutchinson said: “I am thrilled to cut the ribbon and officially open Veera Indian Dining and Bar. Their investment here proves our local dining scene continues to thrive. I offer sincere congratulations to the team on this wonderfully refurbished eatery. I wish Veera every success for the future.”

The historic city has welcomed a number of new food and drink additions in recent months.

Paul Howard, Durham BID Manager, said: “This is a further example of how Durham City's hospitality sector is booming. It is fantastic to see new investment and ambition being brought into the city centre, creating exciting new experiences for residents and visitors alike.

“We wish the team at Veera every success and look forward to seeing this restaurant thrive in our city."

Minhaz Syed, owner of Veera Indian Dining & Bar, said: “Veera is bringing something really special to Durham. We are proud to offer fantastic traditional Indian food, prepared with passion and authenticity.

“This restaurant is the result of a great deal of hard work and commitment from our team, and we hope the people of Durham love it as much as we do.”

He added: “We are really grateful to organisations like the City of Durham Parish Council and Durham BID who have rolled out the red carpet in welcoming us to the city.

“Through the Parish Council’s Business events grants, we’ve been able to host this grand opening in style and it is great to see the city so full for us today.”

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