A pre-opening function for the Saravana Bhavan vegetarian restaurant in Southall took place on Monday Evening.

It was attended by specially invited guests. The public opening takes place on Tuesday at 10:30 am.

The guest of honour at the pre-opening function of the 46th international branch of the Saravana Bhavan vegetarian restaurant was Ealing Southall MP Virendra Sharma.

The Managing Director of Saravana Bhavan Holdings Mr P. R. Shiva Kumar and other dignitaries were present at this function.

Also present were Dr Onkar Sahota, GLA member representing Ealing & Hillingdon and Ealing Council leader Julian Bell.

The Mayor of Ealing, Councillor Mohammad Aslam, also popped in for a short visit.

There were numerous previous mayors of Ealing as well Councillors representing the area.

Mr Sharma said that the previous business at the same premises, Glassy Junction, was known internationally. Southall was proud to be associated with it. But in recent years the reputation of Glassy Junctions went downhill and it was not something that Southall was proud to be associated with.

Ealing Council leader Julian Bell said: "It’s a pleasure to be at the opening of the Saravana Bhavan, a fantastic new vegetarian restaurant in Southall. I have experienced the food tonight and it is wonderful, exceptionally good. It is a great opportunity for people to come and enjoy themselves in Southall."

"And it creates new jobs. Ealing Council is always looking for new businesses and new jobs and new investment. And this is a great example of investing in Southall. It creates new jobs. Giving people a food experience of quality."

"The new owners are very keen to be involved in the community. I welcome that. We look forward to working in partnership with them and other businesses and community organisation to improve Southall."