Baabzi Miah was determined to fulfil his late father’s dream when he opened the doors to his new Indian takeaway in Birmingham on what would have been his birthday.
But the arrival of Baabzi Kings Heath was cause for celebration, marking a return to the city for the family who, for generations, have held a reputation for quality Indian cuisine.
Baabzi, who has also run an award-winning takeaway in Warwick for the past eight years, launched the latest venture on February 5th with his business partner Ash Iqbal in the former home of Chillies Indian Takeaway on Woodthorpe Road.
And it brings special meaning for the self-taught chef whose career in hospitality was inspired by his father Mostab Ali. He followed in his footsteps to open his first restaurant at the age of just 19, before going on to run successful restaurants and takeaways in Sutton Coldfield and Olton, Solihull, as well as south Warwickshire.
Baabzi said: “In December I lost my father, the man who taught me everything. He was my mentor, my inspiration, and the driving force behind my journey. It was his vision that brought Baabzi Kings Heath to life.
“He made the deal for this place alongside my dear friend Ash Iqbal, and though he was looking forward to seeing it flourish, fate had other plans. Six months after sealing the deal, he fell ill and passed away.
“This place is more than just a business, it holds deep sentimental value. My grandfather, father, and generations before me built their lives in the curry industry, pioneering from the 1970s. Their dedication flows through me, my brother, and now my sons and nephews, as we carry forward their legacy.
“I miss my father with every breath, but his name, his reputation, and his unwavering principles will live on through Baabzi. This is my promise to him. To honour him, I chose to open on February 5th his birthday. This way, every year, this place will stand as a reminder of his vision, his sacrifices, and his legacy. I miss him more than words can express, but on this day, I feel his essence, his guidance, and his pride.”
He added: “I’m thrilled to be bringing Baabzi back to Kings Heath, where it all began for me. With the immense success we’ve had in Warwick and my previous ventures in Birmingham, I’m confident this will be a special chapter.
“Kings Heath holds a unique place in my heart, especially with my father playing such a crucial role in making this project happen. We’ve worked hard to perfect the menu and service, offering authentic dishes with a fresh, modern twist. My partner Ash and I have been planning this for a long time, and we can’t wait to welcome our community to experience Baabzi Kings Heath.”
Baabzi’s reputation is underlined by a clutch of awards, including Best Takeaway in The Good Food Awards 2021; Best Local Takeaway in the 2021 British Curry Awards, the Blue Ribbon Good Food Award and Curry Life Award.
The menu offers an authentic reflection of Bengali Cuisine with influences mainly through India, Pakistan and South Asia.
Baabzi Kings Heath is open 5-11pm six days a week, closing on Tuesdays. Visit: https://baabzikingsheath.co.uk/
Baabzi said: “Some bonds never fade, some legacies never end. This is for you, Dad your dream, your name, your legacy, forever alive.”