Raj Rana, founder of Birmingham city centre’s renowned Indian fine-dining restaurant Itihaas, has sold the establishment after 21 years in business. The Jewellery Quarter venue, located on Fleet Street, was listed for over £1.25 million before being purchased by restaurant group My Delhi.
Mr Rana opened Itihaas in January 2005, despite having no previous experience in the restaurant industry. His dedication quickly paid off, with the restaurant earning the title of Best UK Restaurant at the Cobra Good Curry Awards within two years of opening.
Reflecting on the sale, Mr Rana described his journey as “emotional”, expressing gratitude for the support he received from the Birmingham community throughout his time there. Although he is stepping away to pursue a new hotel venture in Worcestershire, he remains confident in the new owners' commitment to maintaining the restaurant’s high standards.
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“We’re handing over to some wonderful people,” Mr Rana said. “They’re going to carry on Itihaas with the same mindset, focus, and five-star service that Birmingham has come to enjoy and expect. It was an emotional journey. I’ve really appreciated the warmth and support over the past 21 years, but now it’s time for others to continue the legacy. It’s business as usual. Please book your table and support the new owners as you have supported me.”
A spokesperson for My Delhi, the new proprietors, expressed their honour in continuing Itihaas’s legacy. “We can’t wait to welcome you all,” they said in a social media statement.