Durham, NC – Despite ongoing concerns about declining foot traffic in downtown Durham, a new restaurant is hoping to revitalize the local dining scene. Anjappar Chettinad Indian Restaurant officially opened its doors on Wednesday, introducing authentic South Indian cuisine to the area.
The launch comes at a time when other downtown businesses have struggled to stay afloat. Recent closures, including the former Copa restaurant on West Main Street and 321 Coffee, highlight the challenges faced by local establishments in 2024. Business owners and city leaders agree that a lack of consistent foot traffic is a critical issue.
“A lot of people don’t come to town to spend their money, and that affects our businesses,” said Durham County Commissioners Chairwoman Nida Allam. She emphasized the importance of community support for local businesses, urging residents to recognize their value. “These restaurants and small shops are part of our community,” Allam added.
Anjappar Durham’s owner, Prakash Sambath, remains optimistic about the restaurant’s potential to attract customers and offer something unique. Housed in a district administrative building that had stood vacant for nearly six years, Sambath sees the venture as an opportunity to reenergize the area.
“It will take us some time to settle down and understand what people need, what kind of food they like, what spices they want,” Sambath explained. “But I’m not giving up.”
Sambath is confident that Anjappar’s distinctive menu, rooted in the rich culinary heritage of Chettinad cuisine, will appeal to both the downtown crowd and regional construction workers seeking a flavorful dining option.
Efforts to increase downtown activity are also underway. The redevelopment of the old Durham police headquarters on West Chapel Hill Street is expected to include apartments and retail spaces, which could draw more visitors to the area.
While challenges remain, Anjappar Durham’s grand opening is a testament to the resilience and determination of local entrepreneurs. Residents are encouraged to support this new addition to the downtown dining scene and help strengthen the vibrancy of the community.
For updates on downtown Durham developments and business highlights, follow Bull City Citizen.
