OWNERS of a new Indian restaurant which will replace the Boathouse are confident about its long-term future despite disruptive construction works.

Elai will bring exciting and authentic south Indian flavours to Salisbury with dishes using spices sourced from Kerala.

The restaurant, located at the old Boathouse building in Mill Stream Approach, will have a 'soft opening' at the end of July.

Translating to 'a leaf' in English, Elai will continue the unique south Indian tradition of serving food on banana leaves.

Co-owners Unni Bala and Nidhin Satheesan first opened Elai Basingstoke in June 2022 after 20-year careers in hospitality.

Following the business's success, the pair decided to buy the Boathouse as the river reminded them of home.

Salisbury Journal: Unni Bala and Nidhin Satheesan inside Elai Basingstoke.Unni Bala and Nidhin Satheesan inside Elai Basingstoke. (Image: James Marley)

Mr Bala told the Journal that lots of people working in the NHS are from south India and say the food served at Elai is "exactly like what they have back home" and he hopes to recreate this in Salisbury.

On February 27, the Boathouse closed permanently blaming a complete loss in footfall due to the River Park Project.

Read more: ​Boathouse: Owners 'took a risk' and opened at a 'bad time'

Salisbury Journal: Painted entrance to Elai.Painted entrance to Elai. (Image: Newsquest)

Despite this risk, Mr Satheesan is confident about his business' future in the spot.

"Any business you start there is always some worry but we have to start somewhere to get somewhere.

"The risk is always there but if you are giving good and honest food people will always come and we believe in that," he said.

An artist was commissioned to paint a river-themed mural inside the restaurant and Mr Bala has big plans for decorating Elai.

Salisbury Journal: Upstairs mural inside Elai.Upstairs mural inside Elai. (Image: Salisbury Journal)

Once the business is up and running, he would like to get the upstairs walls painted to create the illusion of sitting in a boat floating down an Indian river.

Each dish served is Halal, made from ingredients used "for generations", and Elai will offer indoor and outdoor dining as well as takeaway. Cocktails are also on the menu.

For more information visit elai.uk.