About Royal Jaipur
Established in 2005, Royal Jaipur was founded by Syed to bring authentic Indian cuisine to the heart of Landford and its surrounding villages. At the time, there was no dedicated Indian dining experience in the area, and Syed saw an opportunity to share his heritage and passion for food with the local community.
The inspiration behind Royal Jaipur is deeply rooted in Syed’s family legacy. His late father, also named Syed, played a pioneering role in introducing Indian takeaway cuisine to the South of England. After working in the Portsmouth dockyard for the merchant navy in the early 1960s, Syed senior opened the first Indian takeaway outside London in Portsmouth in 1975. He later established several other restaurants in and around the city, setting a high standard for quality and service.
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Growing up in this environment, Syed learned invaluable lessons from his father—not only culinary skills but also the importance of hospitality, quality, and community engagement. These values are the cornerstone of Royal Jaipur, where guests are treated like family, and food is prepared using high-quality ingredients to ensure a truly memorable dining experience.
A Royal Name with a Purpose
The name Royal Jaipur pays homage to the capital of Rajasthan, also referred to as the Land of the Kings. Jaipur is famous for its royal heritage, majestic palaces, and strong ties to polo and equestrian culture. Even King Charles has played polo in Jaipur.
Given Landford’s location on the edge of the New Forest, an area also known for its love of horses, Syed felt the name was both fitting and aspirational. It reflects his commitment to serving every customer with the grace and attention one would offer to royalty.
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The restaurant occupies the former Keepers Inn, a site once known as the renowned Finders Keepers. In 2005, Syed acquired the property adjacent to the New Forest Lodge Hotel, transforming it through extensive refurbishment into the elegant and welcoming establishment it is today.
Supporting the Local Community
Royal Jaipur has always been more than just a restaurant, it is a proud supporter of the local community. Over the years, we have raised funds for:
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Landford CofE Primary School
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Whiteparish Primary School
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Help for Heroes
We also sponsor local sporting events, including the Royal Jaipur Open, an annual tennis tournament held at Wellow Tennis Club.
The club has also chosen Royal Jaipur as the venue for its Christmas Dinner and Awards Ceremony.
Additionally, Royal Jaipur proudly hosts the Landford School PTA Quiz Night up to five times a year - a highly anticipated event that brings the community together while raising vital funds for the school.
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Giving Back Further Afield
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In addition to his local efforts, Syed is a trustee of the AQK Foundation, a charity that raises funds for orphans and disadvantaged children in Bangladesh.
The foundation focuses on providing support, maintenance, and access to education, offering these children hope for a brighter future. Syed’s commitment to charitable work reflects the same values he brings to Royal Jaipur - compassion, service, and community.