AN Indian restaurant which has been a “pillar of the community” is celebrating 25 years of bringing top class food and service to Westcliff. 

Shagor, on Hamlet Court Road, marked the impressive anniversary at the start of the month and bosses are confident they have many more years of success ahead of them. 

Dilawar Hussain, one of the restaurant’s owners, pointed to the “hard work” and constant commitment of the team, alongside a focus on providing excellent customer service as key to the restaurant’s longevity. 

Father and son - Dilawar and Naz HussainFather and son - Dilawar and Naz Hussain (Image: Michael Robinson)


He has been in the catering industry for the last 40 years and believes his business is located within a great community - sending a heartfelt thank you to residents for their support.

Dilawor said: “It’s all down to hard work good customer service, we are in a nice community, we are in a great place, and there are lots of friendly people.

“I love it here, I’ve been here since 1982. I’ve had businesses in Hockley, Rochford, Eastwood and Shoebury. I’ve been the catering businessman in the area for the last 40 years and I really enjoy service food to the people. Co-owner - Dilawar is celebrating 25 years of the ShagorCo-owner - Dilawar is celebrating 25 years of the Shagor (Image: Michael Robinson)


“I’m really looking forward to another good few years, I want to show my respect and thanks to all my customers who have been my friends throughout the years.

“I love the restaurant business, serving food and drink to customers, I enjoy when people are enjoying their meals.”

His son, Naz Hussain, 38, from Westcliff, has been helping his father out at the restaurant for years and believes the restaurant sets itself apart from others with its buffet, function room, customer service, and ability to seat 12 or 14 people at short notice. 

Longevity - The Shagor has stood for 25 yearsLongevity - The Shagor has stood for 25 years (Image: Michael Robinson)


He said he is confident the restaurant’s buffet is the “best value” in all of Southend, and added famous faces such as David Hasselhoff, Frank Bruno, and former MP Sir David Amess have all graced the venue. 

Function room - One of the feathers in the cap of the ShagorFunction room - One of the feathers in the cap of the Shagor (Image: Michael Robinson)


He said: “We have seen the whole road change over the years, many businesses start and die, a lot of restaurants and bars change hands, we have always been at the heart of this community.

“I love being here and it never feels like I’m working. You have to be doing something right if you’re open for 25 years.”

Shangor is currently looking to recruit young chefs to join the team. Anyone interested should contact the restaurant.