Why bosses at newly-reopened Lancashire Indian restaurant have banned groups bigger than 8 in main restaurant
Bosses at a newly-reopened Indian restaurant have announced they will no-longer be serving groups of more than eight guests in the main restaurant.
On Sunday, management of AnarKali Indian pub and restaurant, which reopened this month at the Game Cock Inn, Great Harwood, took to social media to explain their stance.
It comes as owner Yasin Ali also explained his staff had experienced some “teething issues” during an extremely busy Christmas period, as they strive to make the venue “one of Lancashires leading Indian restaurants, alongside a quality English pub.”
The statement on Facebook on Sunday said: “We would like to inform you that Anarkali will no longer be taking party bookings of more than 8 guests in the main restaurant.
“The decision has not been taken lightly. Large party bookings can place extreme pressure on our staff and ourselvesm and unfortunately this can lead to unfair treatment. Most importantly, it can result in our senior customers being unintentionally neglected, which is something we will never accept.”
Function room
They added: “Our priority is to provide a relaxed, respecful, and attentive dining experience for all guests, especially those who value comfort, care, and personal service.
“Our function room remains fully available for larger parties, ordering a buffet-style service ideal for birthdays, celebrations, and group gatherings. Thank you for your understanding, respect, and continued support - it truly means a great deal to us.”
The restaurant
The Anarkali relaunched at the Game Cock Inn on December 4, following a major renovation. It is now a spacious 250-plus seat restaurant serving freshly prepared Indian cuisine every day. There are open-plan dining areas and luxury booths, ideal for couples and small family groups seeking a more intimate dining experience.
While diners have taken to Tripadvisor to praise the restaurant’s “delicious” food and warm welcome, the owners have acknowledged there have been problems with service in its first few weeks.
On December 17, they said: “We would like to sincerely apologise for the service some of you may have experienced over the last week. As a newly relaunched restaurant, we have encountered many teething issues. These are being addressed immediately, and clear improvements are already being made across our service and operations.We are fully committed to delivering the high standards of food, service, and hospitality that Anarkali stands for, and we thank you for your patience, understanding, and continued support as we move forward.”