Award-winning chef joins new Asian restaurant in Bedford town centre

The acclaimed cook, who is recognised by both the Michelin and Hardens Guides, will serve as head chef at Blue Monk.

The restaurant, which is being run by brothers Badrul and Jay Islam, opened today (Monday) on 19-21 High Street.

Chef Sudha, who is best known for his role as executive head chef at Saffron Restaurant Group, said: “I am so excited to have joined the team at Blue Monk, a restaurant that has ambitions to do great things here in Bedford.

"We have worked hard to craft a menu that offers something for every occasion; whether you’re looking for a light lunch at work, a traditional family meal, or a celebration with a difference, we’re using the finest and most authentic ingredients in our recipes. I can’t wait to open the doors and welcome people in.”

The 58-cover restaurant will be open for lunch and dinner daily, with a takeaway and delivery service every evening.

Speaking ahead of the opening, co-owner Badrul said: “We’ve created something really special with Blue Monk; a restaurant that we hope the town is proud to have here.

"Paying homage to the history of the stunning building, the interior is bold yet with an elegant finish and our service, of course, welcoming to everyone.

Blue Monk’s menu boasts traditional cuisine alongside a host of impressive signature dishes.

Their specialities include Murgh Makhanwala (tandoor cooked coquelet with wild mushroom and truffle oil infused kedgeree and a makhni sauce) and the Esa Jhol (tiger prawns cooked with spinach, black pepper, green chillis and tama sauce), to the Seafood Moilee (prawns, halibut and scallops with dosa potato and spinach gateaux).

Badrul added: "We have an amazing team with Jay managing front of house and securing Sudha Saha as head chef is such a coup; he’s so well-respected in the industry and we’re delighted to have him and his vision on board. We look forward to opening those doors on Monday and welcoming you all in.”

Visit www.bluemonk.uk or call 01234 219 095 to make a reservation. You can also follow the restaurant on Facebook and Instagram: @bluemonkbedford.