Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Eatery boss retires after four decades
A BROUGHTY Ferry restauranteur has decided to call it a day after almost four decades in the industry.
Munsif Ali Mohammed, 63, opened his first restaurant — the Ganges — in Lochee in 1978.
The following year, Munsif moved his buisness to Broughty Ferry, opening the Gulistan House in Gray Street.
And finally, in 1988, he moved to the Gulistan House’s current location in Queen Street, Broughty Ferry.
He said the original Gulistan in Gray Street had the honour of being the first Indian restaurant to open in Broughty Ferry.
Munsif, who lives in the Ferry with wife Nasreen, said: “After 39 years, I think I will take some time to relax and see how I feel in a year.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time at the restaurant and I will miss working and speaking to customers.
“I’m planning to spend more time with my wife, my two sons and daughter, and my three grandchildren.
“I want to thank my customers over the years.
“A lot of them have been very loyal and regular visitors to the restaurant.
“And, I would like to say thanks to my staff over the years. Many of them have gone on to own their own successful restaurants.”
One of those members of staff is Rachid El’Qmache, the Gulistan House’s new owner. Rachid moved to Dundee in 1990 and worked for Munsif at the Gulistan for about five years. He then left and lived in different places, including Edinburgh and London, before returning to Dundee in 2012.
He said: “This will be my second time working here — but this time I will now be the owner.”
The restaurant surrendered its alcohol licence to Dundee City Council on April 1, meaning drink will no longer be sold on the premises.
However, those who still fancy a glass of wine or bottle of beer with their meal are “welcome” to bring their own.
Rachid, 48, said: “When I worked and lived in London in particular, it was very common to have a “bring your own bottle” policy.
“I think with a restaurant people like you to concentrate on the food and service.
“But those who want to have a drink with their meal are welcome to do so, and we will happily keep their drink refrigerated.
“There will be no corkage charge either, so they won’t pay any extra.”
Rachid, who lives in Broughty Ferry with wife Susan and their two children, added that part of his decision not to sell alcohol was due to his Islamic faith.
He said among other possible endeavours, he may try opening during lunch times.
He also said the business may try and expand into outside catering — providing food for functions in other venues.