Leeds restaurants: The Funky Indian set for Pudsey takeover with coffee, cocktails and Punjabi food

Owner Jazz Gill is preparing to open a new 250-seat outdoor terrace so he can serve up his Punjabi cuisine with a twist, coffee and cake in the day and two-for-one cocktails by night.

“We’re an independent, family-run business,” Jazz said.

“We’re not an Indian takeaway, it’s Punjabi cuisine with some funk. We’re bringing the taste of what we get back home to Leeds.”

After being forced to close just 12 days after opening in October, business was thriving for The Funky Indian over lockdown.

Jazz served delivered share boxes across Leeds, filled with treats such as kebabs, samosas and the brand’s popular peri peri paneer.

But nothing beats a restaurant filled with hungry customers, Jazz said, and he’s preparing for a hectic few weeks ahead.

Jazz added: “It’s been nuts, we’re selling out fast. The noise the customers have made has been amazing.”

What’s on offer at The Funky Indian?

The Funky Indian, in Richardshaw Lane, Pudsey will open seven days a week from April 12, seating more than 250 people outdoors.

Customers can enjoy coffee, cake and light bites from 11am, before the outdoor area is transformed into a Punjabi restaurant in the evening.

Jazz has switched up the menu adding mouth-watering starters, including kebabs, tandoori chicken and peri-peri spiced chicken and paneer, which were a hit during lockdown.

The restaurant is fully licensed and will serve two-for-one cocktails in the evening on the outdoor terrace, which will be decked out with atmospheric lighting.

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