Ajay Kumar, the chef who rose to fame as a finalist on the BBC's Great British Menu in 2024, has permanently closed his Glasgow restaurant Grilled. The Indian barbecue spot, which opened in 2025, shut its doors after what the chef described as a 'difficult decision'.
Closure Announcement
A statement on the restaurant's website read: 'After an unforgettable journey, we have made the difficult decision to close Grilled, which is now permanently no longer trading.' The message thanked diners for their support over the years, adding: 'Your loyalty and encouragement have meant the world to our team, and we are truly grateful to have shared so many wonderful memories with you.'
The statement concluded with a note that Kumar hopes to welcome guests to his other establishment, Swadish, which remains open.
Continued Operations at Swadish
Swadish is Kumar's award-winning fine dining Indian restaurant, also located in Glasgow. According to its website, the cuisine draws inspiration from 'the simple yet elegant techniques of my grandmother's kitchen' and blends Indian and British cultures. Swadish has earned numerous accolades, including 2 AA Rosettes, Best Fine Dining Restaurant in the Indian Cuisine Awards, Best in Scotland at the British Curry Awards, and Outstanding Indian Restaurant of the Year at the Scottish Curry Awards 2023, as well as the title of Scottish Curry Champion.
Chef's Background
Born in Punjab, India, Kumar trained under master chefs in India, Malaysia, and Singapore before moving to Scotland in 2009. His appearance on Great British Menu in 2024 saw him reach the final, further cementing his reputation in the culinary world.
