A RESTAURANT owner has expressed delight after his business clinched a place in the Good Food Guide (GFG) only seven months after opening.

Rajesh Suri, 55, of South Woodford, described Grand Trunk Road’s inclusion in the “Best Newcomer” category as a “proud moment”.

Mr Suri, who has been in the restaurant business for 30 years, said getting into a “highly credible guide” like the GFG was the restaurant’s main aim.

He said: “Obviously for us it’s wonderful news. I read the interesting review. It’s encouraging for us to keep moving and evolving and doing the best we can for the area and get more awards.”

He thanked his chef Dayashanka Sharma, describing him as “focused” and behind some “great food”.

“We’ll continue doing what we need to do to get to the next level,” he added.

Getting into the GFG was a team effort, he said: “I think it’s a great achievement to get into the guide in such a short period of time. As a unit we’re extremely strong and on the same page. For me it’s a proud moment and will continue working to be part of every top guide.”

More restaurants from South Woodford will get in the guide, improving the area’s profile, he hoped.

The restaurant, which serves Indian cuisine and is located on High Road, opened on November 15, 2016.