HISTORY & ORIGINS

The story of Le Raj Restaurant is a tale of passion, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of culinary excellence, all woven around the extraordinary journey of its founder, Enam Ali MBE.

Enam Ali, born in Bangladesh in 1960, arrived in the United Kingdom in 1974 with aspirations to study law. However, his part-time work in the hospitality industry during his student years unveiled a deep-seated passion for this sector. This passion led him to a pivotal decision – the establishment of Le Raj in 1989 in Epsom. From a modest restaurant, Le Raj was set to embark on a journey that would redefine the British culinary landscape.

Under Ali's visionary leadership, Le Raj transcended the traditional boundaries of Indian cuisine. It became one of the first upscale Indian restaurants in the UK, introducing British diners to the intricate and refined flavors of Mughal cooking. Ali's commitment to quality and innovation quickly garnered Le Raj a reputation as a premier establishment within the hosptality industry.

The restaurant's innovative spirit was epitomised in the mid-90s when it transformed into the world’s first flying restaurant. This novel venture, offering culinary adventures aboard a De Havilland Dash 7 aircraft, showcased Ali's flair for creativity and his commitment to offering unique dining experiences.

Le Raj's prominence continued to grow, and its role as the official restaurant partner for the London 2021 Olympic Games marked a significant milestone. This prestigious honor, coupled with the gift of an official Olympic torch, highlighted Le Raj's ability to deliver world-class culinary experiences on an international stage.

Adding to its accolades, Le Raj was inducted into the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, joining the ranks of the world's greatest hospitality establishments. This prestigious membership further affirmed Le Raj's commitment to culinary excellence and distinguished service.

Committed to nurturing future culinary talents, Le Raj established an academy in partnership with North East Surrey College of Technology. This educational venture aimed to train the next generation of chefs, ensuring the continuation of culinary innovation.

Ali's influence extended beyond Le Raj. He was a pivotal figure in the British curry industry, founding The British Curry Awards in 2005 and launching Spice Business Magazine in 1998. These initiatives not only celebrated the excellence of British curry but also significantly raised the profile of British curry restaurants. His contributions were recognised with numerous honors, including being appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 2009.

Sadly, Enam Ali passed away in 2022, but his legacy continues through his son, who is now at the helm of Le Raj. The new generation is committed to maintaining the high standards set by Enam Ali, ensuring that Le Raj continues to innovate and remain a symbol of excellence.

Today, Le Raj stands as a testament to Enam Ali MBE's vision, passion, and dedication. It is not just a restaurant but a culinary institution that represents the best of Indian cuisine in the UK, a beacon of innovation and quality, and a living legacy of a man who transformed the British culinary scene.​