History

Based on Castle Point’s bustling London Road, the Maharaja is an Indian restaurant full of heritage, offering unique and exotic dishes in a princely setting.

The Maharaja’s owner Siraj Ali has been making an impact in the Indian catering industry, with a career spanning 40 years.

He says, “Our business is very much a family affair, our focus is on dedication to award winning taste, service and ambiance to ensure that everyone that visits the Maharaja, leaves feeling like they have been fed like Royalty” said Siraj, “We have been proud to serve the residents of Essex, the finest Indian cuisine for several decades now and have been rewarded with multiple national awards for our dedication to taste and service!”

Siraj has experience of owning and operating many restaurants across the area but now he concentrates on
his one dream business – The Maharaja.

Siraj explains: “The Maharaja really is a joy to work on. I wanted to put all our team’s efforts into one restaurant, ensuring we can always offer the very highest level of service, quality and value.”.

“The Maharaja as well as my other businesses, continues to pursue and contribute significantly to charities including Little Haven Hospice, Motor Neuron Disease Association and St Luke’s Hospice amongst others.” He added..in fact, the reputation of The Maharaja reached Britain’s lawmakers in Westminster and was chosen to cater for the launch of the first nation-wide Bangladesh Festival of Food and Culture at the House of Commons.

The restaurant itself is a landmark in Castle Point and has built up a following of loyal customers. It remains one of the trailblazers for charity events in the Borough and it even received praise during a debate at the House of Commons. “With our regal name, we really wanted to offer our diners something really special” said Siraj, “We wanted something timeless, tasteful and authentic, a bit of history from a time when luxury and exquisite taste was the order of the day. With our traditional layout and design we can help people experience a little bit of the sub-continent right here in Castle Point!”

Maharaja is certainly full of atmosphere and recent renovations have created an opulent environment fit for a King and Queen. With a ‘million-colour’ dance-floor, a vast buffet bar, disabled facilities and the exclusive ‘Maharani Room’ private dining area, the Maharaja offers an even greater level of luxury.

“Our renovations make Maharaja even more exclusive but even more affordable,” explained Siraj, “We really are keen to add a little luxury for our guests and so we’re even having our new chairs made to order in India!”

But the food at Maharaja must not be overshadowed by the glorious ambience. The menu is diverse and exotic, offering something for everyone. Unique and tasty options, free from artificial flavours, give a rich and spicy edge to the restaurant’s traditional offerings and the new, exclusive ‘Lean Menu’ means even those watching their waistline can enjoy the very best in Indian cuisine.

Offering a traditional and exotic evening out, Benfleet’s Maharaja is the place to come in Castle Point if you want a little more spice in your life.