Prospect’s hidden Indian restaurant Rasooi is preparing for a new chapter, with new operators set to take over the backstreet venue and gradually shape it into something fresh.
The Edgeworth Street spot, which is known for its leafy garden setting and tucked-away atmosphere, is in the middle of a transition, with Rennee and her husband Pammi preparing to step in as the next people behind the restaurant. While the final details are still under wraps, the pair are planning big interior updates, a refreshed feel and a new name and brand: Rasoi & Barrel.
Rennee says the handover is progressing and the aim is to reopen on 15 May.
The restaurant will close briefly at the start of May. “After that, we’ll be going in, doing some renovations and changing some interiors,” Rennee said.
For now, the plan is not to rush into a complete overhaul. Instead, Rennee and Pammi want to get to know the restaurant, its customers and what people love most about the current offering before making bigger changes.
The move is a deeply personal one for the couple. Rennee says Pammi has long dreamed of running a food venue of his own.
“My husband is a very, very passionate cook,” Rennee said. “He’s always wanted a cafe or a restaurant.”
The opportunity came about after Rennee’s sister and brother-in-law visited from India late last year. Her brother-in-law knew the restaurant’s previous owner and mentioned that the venue may be available, sparking a conversation that soon became a serious possibility.
“My husband came back and he mentioned it, and I was like, ‘We’ll see,’” Rennee laughed. Eventually, after much consideration, she said, “go for it. I’m in with you.”
Rennee will look after the managerial side of the business, while Pammi will focus more closely on operations, food and cooking.
While there is plenty of excitement around the new chapter, Rennee is honest about the scale of the step they are taking.
“It’s a big step,” she said. “It’s different when you’re just cooking for your friends and serving them and they’re all praising your food.”
“I’ve got full confidence in my husband that he’s going to take this restaurant to the next level. I am excited.”
For now, the venue is preparing to close one chapter and begin another, with a familiar Prospect venue set to re-emerge under new ownership and a new vision.
Rasoi & Barrel
Where: 29 Edgeworth Street, Prospect
When: Set to reopen 15 May
For more information, click here.
