A CHEF has finally opened her own Thai takeaway van after months spent finding a venue.
Safina Harris previously cooked at Winchester College but is now pursuing her dream of running her own foodie business, opening Safina’s Thai at Sparsholt Cricket Club on Friday, June 9.
Originally, the Thai chef planned to open the van in her front garden in Woodman Close back in March. Unaware of what the rules were, Safina phoned Winchester City Council who she said gave her the go-ahead.
But just two weeks before the van was supposed to open the council called to say she wasn’t allowed to open the van on-site and would need to move.
READ MORE: Restaurant owner slams council’s decision to scrap free overnight parking
Safina, 44, said: “I accepted that we’d been given the wrong information but I couldn’t find anywhere to move the truck. Locals had menus and started ordering when we couldn’t open. It was so stressful and took so much energy. I love to cook and I wanted to get started.”
After trying different places across the village, the chef finally had success with the cricket cub in Lock’s Lane, just a couple minutes away from her home, following a suggestion from a friend who works there.
Safina said: “The cricket club really loved the idea and were lovely and helpful. I had to start again with the water and electricity supply but it’s amazing that we’re open now. I’m so relieved after all the problems.
“I’d never been to the cricket club before the launch but it’s really nice and posh here. It’s beautiful, I’m so pleased.
SEE ALSO: Pilates instructor aiming to fill gap in the market with new business
“People told me not to give up and that they were waiting for me to open. We were non-stop busy for the launch. People are lovely here and are so happy with the takeaway. Visitors are saying it’s amazing and their new Friday treat.
“I loved it at Winchester College – it was luxurious. But one day I just thought I really need to do my own thing. I quit my job and bought the food truck in November, giving me four months to prepare. Then we had the problems and I was so down but we’re finally open.”
Safina’s Thai is open 4.30pm to 9.30pm Friday - Saturday until September before Safina goes back to Thailand for the summer with the intention of opening the van up again next year throughout the cricket season.
Dishes include Thai green curry, Massaman curry, Pad Krapow, Pad See Ew stir fry and mixed vegetable stir as well as started, sides and dipping sauces.
To pre-book WhatsApp 07469178330. For more information go to Safina’s Thai on Facebook.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel