A NEW Indian restaurant that will replace the recently-closed Boathouse has confirmed its opening date.

Elai, at Mill Stream Approach, will open its doors to serve south Indian cuisine to Salisbury from 12pm on Wednesday, August 2.

Co-owner Nidhin Satheesan, who also manages Elai in Basingstoke, confirmed that although it's a "soft launch", the restaurant will be open to everyone.

Decorated with an indoor river-themed mural, the restaurant will serve Halal dishes for dine-in and takeaway.

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The new opening comes after the Boathouse permanently closed on February 27 due to rising costs and a drop in footfall.

Salisbury Journal: Entrance to Elai.Entrance to Elai. (Image: Newsquest)

Mr Satheesan is aware of the risk that comes when opening a restaurant near a large development, such as the River Park Project, but is confident about Elai's future.

He previously told the Journal: "The risk is always there but if you are giving good and honest food people will always come and we believe in that."

The restaurant will be open from 12pm until 10pm on its opening night.

For more information visit elai.uk.