A new Indian street food restaurant has opened at the former home of one of Hitchin's longest-running restaurants.

Raj Heritage Restaurant, at 19A Hermitage Road, officially opens its doors today (Monday, August 17), taking over the premises previously occupied by Raj Douth.

The opening marks a new chapter for a site with a long association with Indian food in Hitchin.

Raj Douth announced its closure earlier this year after 54 years in the town, bringing an end to more than half a century of serving customers from its Hermitage Road restaurant.

The restaurant had become a familiar part of Hitchin's food scene, with its history stretching back to the early 1970s.

Now the venue is being given a new lease of life as Raj Heritage, which is promising "authentic flavours" and "street vibes", with a particular focus on Indian street food.

Dishes being promoted for the opening include chaat, pav bhaji, vada pav, samosas and momos, alongside kulhad chai and other Indian favourites.

The restaurant says its food will be made fresh daily using fresh ingredients and authentic recipes, with vegetarian options also available.

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The change represents a shift from the more traditional Indian restaurant offering previously associated with the address.

Raj Heritage describes its new offering as bringing "pure Indian soul" to Hitchin and is inviting residents to "come, celebrate and be a part of our heritage".

Its arrival means that, despite the closure of a restaurant which had served the town for more than five decades, 19A Hermitage Road will continue its long association with Indian cuisine.

Raj Heritage Restaurant is at 19A Hermitage Road, Hitchin, SG5 1BT.