TWENTY years after they first opened a takeaway, a family have launched their new restaurant in the former Park Hotel.

Shabaz Iqbal, who opened Armaan’s Restaurant in Montague Street, Blackburn, with his brothers Harun Iqbal and Usman Ghani, says it has been a long journey but the new restaurant is something they are very proud of.

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“People love to eat out. It’s that treat at the end of the week,” said Shabaz.

“We realise that people today are more careful with their budgets, so we ensure we accommodate our customers.

“Only last week for Mother’s Day, we had a special deal where all mothers who came to the restaurant ate for free.

“It was lovely to see families coming in and the reaction of the mums.”

Shabaz revealed that his family had been involved in the food industry for many years. They now also run the Harry’s takeaway on Johnson Street.

“My dad established our very first takeaways in Blackburn some 20 years ago.

“Both are still involved in the business. Their advice and input is invaluable.”

Shabaz said that consumer tastes have changed over the years, which Armaan’s have strived to reflect in their menu.

“We have the traditional curries on the menu. They will never go out of fashion.

“The ‘Chicken Chilli Masala’ is our spiciest dish. That’s a challenge even for me!

“Our signature dish is the ‘King Grill Platter.’ It’s a sizzling dish which is entirely grilled.

“Other popular dishes include Chinese stir fries, steaks and our speciality pizzas.

“We have entire families that come in to us, so we want to ensure all taste buds are accommodated by our differing cuisines.”

As well as accommodating 150 customers, Armaan’s also boasts a spacious events room upstairs.

Shabaz admits that his ability to put himself in his customer’s shoes has helped him to create that perfect ambience in Armaan’s.

“I know that when I walk into a restaurant, I want to feel at ease and relaxed. I don’t like pretentious environments.”