Great Chief tops 60

Not-so-modest celebrations were recently held at the Punjab Restaurant, Covent Garden's (London's?) oldest Indian restaurant.

A surprise party for Mr Sital Singh Maan, the Punjab's proprietor, had been arranged by his family to mark his 60^th birthday. Many local friends and customers had gathered to fill the Neal Street restaurant before the unsuspecting guru arrived on Sunday afternoon.

His own restaurant had been transformed into a large banqueting hall. Completely flabbergasted, Sital ordered his many friends and long-standing customers to be fed and watered. His sons and daughters, together with the staff (who were all 'in' on the plot) immediately obliged. They had already prepared a fantastic feast, including a big 'six-oh' birthday cake, all in complete secrecy.

A good time was had by all, in particular by Sital himself, who felt (and looked!) like a guest in his own restaurant. As can be expected of the Punjab Restaurant, all celebrations occurred in the best possible style and taste and reminded many locals of the many enjoyable meals served in Covent Garden's best loved 'Indian family dining room'.

For a virtual Vindaloo or a taste of on-line Tikka, please visit www.punjab.co.uk;

© Covent Garden Community Association, February 2000