Amrut is the latest addition to Leicester’s Indian dining scene, has opened its doors on Churchgate in the city centre, promising "India on a plate" in an elegant, ambient setting.
Founded by sisters Shweta and Shivani Joon, who aim to expand their concept across the UK, Amrut celebrated its grand opening on October 18 with a ribbon-cutting by Leicester East MP Shivani Raja and Leicester’s Lord Mayor, Councillor Bhupen Dave. With a menu built on heirloom recipes passed down through generations, Amrut aspires to redefine Indian fine dining in Leicester.
In an interview with Asian Voice, the sisters share the inspiration behind the establishment and their vision for it.
Could you share the inspiration behind Amrut? What initially motivated you to enter the restaurant industry?
Shweta- The restaurant industry has always captivated us for its unique blend of creativity, community, and entrepreneurship. We wanted to create a space that celebrates authentic flavours while fostering warmth and connection. Amrut was born from our deep appreciation for the flavours, traditions, and stories that food carries. Growing up immersed in the aromas and tastes of our culture, we realised how food brings people together and creates lasting connections.
Our vision for Amrut is to share those stories not just through the dishes we serve, but through the entire dining experience, making every guest feel like part of our family. We aim to offer more than a meal—we offer an immersive experience that connects guests to both the food and to each other, creating memories that go beyond the plate.
Could you explain what "India on a plate" means for Amrut and how you bring this concept to life?
Shivani - The concept of "India on a Plate" reflects our dedication to showcasing India's rich culinary heritage. We offer authentic dishes from varied regions such as Delhi, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Kerala. Our goal is to create an immersive dining experience that brings the diverse flavours and textures of India to life, a rare find in the UK. Each dish tells a story, celebrating the unique ingredients and techniques of its origin. At Amrut, we invite guests on a culinary journey through India, where every bite is a reflection of the traditions that make Indian cuisine beloved worldwide.
How do you plan to maintain the authenticity and quality of Amrut as you expand to other locations? Could you tell us more about your future expansion plans?
Shivani- Expanding Amrut to new locations is definitely on the cards and during the process, maintaining the authenticity and quality of our offerings will remain our top priority. We plan to open more locations in key UK cities where demand for authentic Indian cuisine is growing. We will partner with trusted suppliers to source genuine ingredients from India, ensuring consistent flavours across all sites. Each new location will also undergo rigorous training, emphasising traditional cooking techniques and our commitment to authenticity. Standardised recipes and regular quality audits will ensure every dish meets our high standards, replicating the true taste of India.
Looking ahead, Additionally, we’re exploring the introduction of catering services and meal kits, allowing customers to enjoy Amrut’s flavours at home. Our goal is to create a network of Amrut restaurants that represent the diverse richness of Indian cuisine, all while staying true to our core values of authenticity, quality, and hospitality.
Do you have any advice for other aspiring restaurateurs, especially women looking to enter the food industry?
Shweta- As women in the restaurant industry, we have learned that passion, resilience, and authenticity are key to success. To thrive, you must be deeply connected to your concept and mission, embracing your unique perspective to shape your menu, service, and overall experience. Surround yourself with a strong support network of mentors and peers, and always stay open to feedback, using it to refine and improve. While passion is essential, it’s equally important to balance that with solid business acumen—managing finances, operations, and customer satisfaction with consistency and quality.
The restaurant journey can be tough, but celebrating small wins and cultivating resilience will keep you motivated. Focus on continuous learning, whether through formal education or hands-on experience, and advocate for diversity and inclusion in your restaurant and the broader food community. With the right mindset, dedication, and a commitment to both the craft and business, you can create a space that not only serves great food but fosters connection and community.
