The renowned licensing team at Nottingham-based Fraser Brown Solicitors has helped another local entrepreneur to realise his ambitions, as Indian bar and grill Nine Spices throws open its doors.

The restaurant, located in the former Scruffy"s premises on Stoney Street, has been opened by Rahul Passan, who saw a gap in the market for a different type of Indian eatery. Influenced by his father Jarnail Singh Passan, a local businessman who has worked in the food industry for 35 years, Rahul could see the potential for an establishment serving traditional Indian food in a modern yet relaxed environment.

He said, "Having grown up around food, I have an understanding of what constitutes good food and what customers will like and enjoy. We have recruited some top chefs and spent a significant amount refurbishing the premises to create a relaxed eating area that can also accommodate corporate events or larger parties too.

"As far as I am aware, we are the only underground Indian bar and grill in the UK and this gives us an edge over other Indian restaurants in the city. Certainly we feel we are different with a younger, more contemporary atmosphere."

Walaiti Rathore and Jo Soar from Fraser Brown"s licensing department helped to secure the premises license and Rahul"s personal license.

Walaiti said, "Before applying for the premises license we set up a meeting with the police to discuss any issues that might arise. This gave us the chance to fully explain the intended operation of the premises and overcome any objections.

"By working closely together with the authorities we were able to give both sides the opportunity to express any concerns and agree terms and conditions that are fair and satisfactory for all involved."

Rahul added, "Fraser Brown led me through the licensing process from beginning to end, and the team were 100% supportive throughout."