'Thank you for the memories' - Indian restaurant in Harborne closes doors as owners say it is 'no longer viable'

Raja Monkey, the Indian neighbourhood cafe-restaurant, has closed its doors in Harborne, Birmingham.

This closure comes just a year after the vibrant restaurant opened its second branch in this upscale neighbourhood, replacing Estado Da India, another venture by the Lasan Group.

Raja Monkey quickly became a local favourite, known for its informal, fun, and colourful ambience. The restaurant offered a taste of inner-city Delhi and Bombay with its menu featuring classics like pav bhaji, keema pav, and dosas.

The cafe’s lively atmosphere and authentic dishes earned it the title of “Birmingham’s most exciting Indian neighbourhood cafe-restaurant”.

The Lasan Group, renowned for its innovative and high-quality dining experiences, managed Raja Monkey. The group is also behind the award-winning Raja Monkey restaurant in Hall green, which won the AA Rosette award in August 2023 and has been added to the AA Guide.

What did the Raja Monkey closure announcement say?

In a heartfelt statement, Raja Monkey announced its closure, expressing gratitude to its customers for their support and memories The statement read:

“Dear Friends of Raja Monkey,

“After countless curries, naan-induced food comas, and enough spices to keep everyone’s taste buds tingling, it’s time for us to say a heartfelt goodbye.

“With a heavy heart, we announce the closure of Raja Monkey in Harborne. It’s time to hang up our aprons, as continuing here is no longer viable.

“But don’t worry! You can still enjoy your favourite Indian dishes at Lasan, our sister restaurant in St. Paul’s Square. As the proud winner of Gordon Ramsay’s Best Local Restaurant, Lasan is ready to keep your taste buds dancing.

“Thank you for the memories, the laughter, and all the great times. You’ve been truly wonderful!

“With love and gratitude, The Raja Monkey Team”

How did Harborne’s community react?

The closure has left many patrons saddened. Customers praised the restaurant for its amazing and authentic food, which earned it a 4.6-star rating on Google. Comments on social media reflected the community’s disappointment, with many expressing their fond memories and best wishes for the staff.

One customer wrote, “So very sad, good luck to all the lovely staff who helped make this a great place to visit.” Another commented, “So sorry you are leaving. We were lucky enough to have one last meal with you in Harborne last night. I wish we had known it was our last!”

While Raja Monkey’s chapter in Harborne has come to an end. Diners can still enjoy the group’s culinary excellence at Lasan in Birmingham.

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