The acquisition marks My Delhi’s first venture into Birmingham and the group’s first acquisition and comes three months after Itihaas founder Raj Rana announced his search for a successor.
Itihaas will continue to trade under its name, with its heritage and reputation remaining at the heart of the restaurant. All staff members have retained their jobs and the My Delhi says it will reveal their longer-term vision for the business later this year.
The new ownership team includes My Delhi founders Elahi Amin, executive chef Gaurav Dayal, Shah Amin, Gaurav Goyal and Neha Goyal.
Raj Rana, who founded Itihaas in 2004, says: “Itihaas has been a huge part of my life and this was never simply about finding a buyer. For more than twenty years we’ve built something that people genuinely care about. I wanted to find a team that would respect everything we’ve created, support our people and continue building on the reputation Itihaas has earned.
“From our very first conversations, it was clear this team shared those values. They’ve built an exceptional restaurant business, but more importantly they understand hospitality, people and what it takes to create something with lasting impact.
“I have every confidence they’ll protect what makes Itihaas so special while giving it the investment, care and leadership it deserves for many years to come.”
Founded in Newcastle in 2019, My Delhi has grown into one of the UK’s most interesting independent Indian restaurant groups. It now operates successful venues in Newcastle, Sunderland and Leicester, with a site in Leeds due to open soon, and was recently named among 20 brands to watch by Restaurant.
The brand has become known for its regional dishes and modern take on Indian hospitality.
“We’ve admired Itihaas for many years. Restaurants with this history, reputation and connection to their city rarely become available,” says Amin.
“To be entrusted with its future is both an honour and a privilege. We’re not here to change what people love about Itihaas – we’re here to protect its legacy, invest in its future and ensure it continues to thrive for generations to come.
“We’ll bring everything we’ve learned from building My Delhi into this next chapter while respecting the heritage, people and reputation that have made Itihaas such an important part of Birmingham’s dining scene.”