In a beautifully restored Grade II-listed Tudor building in the heart of Wokingham’s Market Place, lies the town’s oldest family-run Indian restaurant.
For Ramandeep, manager of Sultan Indian Restaurant, the restaurant’s culinary journey didn’t begin in the kitchen, but in a quiet home in Delhi, India, filled with the scent of simmering spices.
It was Ramandeep’s grandmother who first lit the spark of inspiration that still burns in Sultan’s kitchen today.
“She had a rule,” he says, “that no-one should ever leave her home without eating food, or feeling hungry.”
“Neighbours or guests who dropped by unexpectedly, were all welcomed with a warm smile and a home-cooked meal.
“She didn’t ask who they were, or why they came – she simply fed them.”
Years later, after pursuing a career in computer science, Ramandeep made the life-changing decision – armed with just the memories of his grandmother’s kitchen – to leave his tech job and follow his heart.
Arriving in the UK in 2009, without a clear plan, he worked double shifts and saved every penny to be able to open his first restaurant, the now award-winning Namak in East London.
But his dream wasn’t complete; he envisioned a place rooted in family values, where flavours would tell stories and every plate would honour his heritage.
The dream brought him to Wokingham — a town that he says perfectly matches his values of community, heritage, and exceptional dining.
Sultan represents more than a restaurant for Ramandeep; it’s a tribute to his grandparents and their timeless lessons of hospitality.
He says: “My mother instilled in me the power of education, and my father showed me the value of honesty and hard work.
“But it was my grandparents who taught me the most profound lesson of all – that feeding someone is the purest form of love.
“Sultan is not just a restaurant, it is a living tribute to my family and the values they gifted me.
“It’s a home built on heritage, heart, and the belief that a shared meal can build bridges between strangers.
“I am honoured to serve not just food, but comfort, connection and care, one plate at a time.”
The restaurant’s Tudor interiors create a sophisticated yet cozy atmosphere across two levels, with historic charm and modern elegance.
Partnering with regional suppliers and using local produce from Wokingham’s Market Place, Sultan serves signature dishes that encompass aromatic North Indian curries and vibrant Southern spices.
King prawn zinga, cauliflower Manchurian, lamb rogan josh, and chicken raspberry tikka, are just some of its culinary creations combining traditional techniques with creative innovation, and balancing bold flavours with artistic presentation.
“The menu offers a very good variety of dishes,” continues Ramandeep.
“Every single one is bursting with flavour you won’t find anywhere else locally.
“Sultan is a part of Wokingham’s story, and we invite you to come inside to experience familiar flavours, savour new tastes, and create lasting memories with loved ones.”
Diners can look out for seasonal and regional specials at the restaurant that spotlight Indian culinary diversity.
Must-trys include: signature butter chicken (rich and nostalgic), chicken tikka shashlik (fire-grilled and layered with spice), and paneer butter masala (indulgent vegetarian comfort).
“Every bite is a tribute to tradition, infused with emotion and creativity – truly a restaurant experience that connects palate and heart,” says Ramandeep.
Sultan regularly celebrates its community connections through Birthday Specials (offering a discount equal to the age), Heroes Week for NHS and emergency service workers, and Family Wednesdays, where children under 12 eat free.
This month, people visiting the restaurant to dine, or just to find out more, can enjoy a sweet treat.
“We’re celebrating the cherished Indian festival of Rakhi, which honours the bond of love and trust between brothers and sisters,” said Ramandeep.
“To share the spirit of this tradition with the whole community, Sultan is giving away a special box of chocolate cinnamon cake completely free – no purchase necessary.
“Come along, experience the warmth of Rakhi, and enjoy a little sweetness on us.”
For information, visit www.sultanindian.co.uk, call on 0118 977 4397 or drop into Sultan at 7 Market Place.
