Free spuds snapped up as Indian twist on classic dish opens in Sunderland

A seafront business is bringing spuds with a twist to Seaburn.

Namaste opened its doors in the former Shagorika site on Queens Parade a year ago and has proved a popular addition to the coast.

Now, as it approaches its one year anniversary, Namaste has a little sister.

Owner Razz Ahmed has converted an archway in between Namaste and The Promenade into Spuds With An Indian Twist, with its own small kitchen and entrance.

The business does what it says on the tin: people are able to buy spuds to go with a variety of curry toppings available.

To launch the new venture this week, the first 100 customers got a free baked potato, which went like hot cakes in the first hour of trading.

“We had a great turnout,” says Razz. “Everyone knows the SpudBros on TikTok and we wanted to do our own twist on that.

“As an Indian restaurant, we’re not open during the week at lunchtimes as Indian food is quite heavy, so this was a chance to offer something for people at lunchtimes.”

Spuds With An Indian Twist is already running at the original Namaste in South Shields where it’s proved a big hit as well as the Namaste in Gateshead.

Moving forward, there’s plans to open the venture near to the Seaham Namaste, which opened in North Terrace earlier this year.

“The spuds start at £4 and then it’s £2 for the curries and £1 for other toppings,” said Razz. “People seem to really like them, it’s something a bit different.”

Razz will soon be hosting an anniversary to mark the first year in Seaburn.

“It’s a difficult time for hospitality,” said Razz. “But we’re really pleased with how the Seaburn site has been received, people seem to like the atmosphere of the smaller venues.”

*Spuds With An Indian Twist is now open seven days a week on Queens Parade from 12pm to 7pm.