It's a sad way to mark an anniversary. But, as Cyrus and Pervin Todiwala prepared to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Café Spice Namaste, they also had to contend with the fact that they were losing the restaurant's East London home.
Café Spice Namaste has been in its current address on Whitechapel's Prescot Street since 1995 which, when you consider the churn of the London restaurant scene, is nothing short of a miracle.
In a newsletter sent out to their customers, Cyrus explained: "After 25 years, the time has come to bid goodbye to our beloved Grade II-listed former magistrates court in Prescot Street. It has been and will be a very difficult time for us, but there is hope too. Our anniversary falls on the Festival of Diwali where light overcomes darkness and brings hope over gloom."
Before customers get too depressed, the good news is that the couple have already found another site, not too far away. And, to help them make that move, three of their longstanding customers have set up a fund to help them. The Friends of Cafe Spice Fund. In a video to launch it, the trio said: "“The thought of life without Café Spice namaste fills us with dismay! So, we have decided to offer what may be small help but, we hope, large encouragement by setting up a ‘Friends of Café Spice Namaste’ collection."
The restaurant will close in its current location at the end of January 2021.
More about Café Spice Namaste
Where is it? 16 Prescot Street, London E1 8AZ
When? Closes 31 January 2021
How to donate: Donate here
Find out more: Visit their website or follow them on Instagram @cafespicenamasteldn
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