New stylish curry house will bring glam Indian to Southsea '“ and 20 jobs

Jhilmil, in Osborne Road, Southsea has created 20 jobs and has undergone a £100,000 refurbishment.

It will provide a fine dining experience, serving traditional Indian dishes along with special hand-crafted additions.

The food is inspired by health and wellbeing with locally-sourced organic ingredients being of high importance to owner Abdul Lekitch.

The businessman said he believed that freshness and quality of produce was the most important aspect of the restaurant business.

Abdul said: ‘It is necessary to have good knowledge of the food you are serving.’

The building was formerly Indian restaurant Jewel in the Crown. Now it has undergone a huge renovation to turn it into a high-class restaurant.

Highlights include a hand-designed mural of the Taj Mahal, which took two months to finish, and chandelier-style light fixtures.

In contrast, the tableware has a rustic theme.

Business partner Giash Uddin, 46, said: ‘Our tasting menu offers customers four options which come with a pre-selected fine wine.

‘No Indian restaurant has done this in Hampshire.’

He said that, appropriately, Jhilmil translates as ‘sparkle’ which complements the restaurant’s glamorous decor.

After working as a chef for many years, Giash is involved in all aspects of preparing Jhilmil for opening. The dishes are tried and tested by Giash and Abdul, who have strived to create a menu of ‘designer food.’

This includes ensuring that customers with special dietary requirements, such as vegans, are not left out.