Baba Chicken, a beloved Surrey eatery known for its authentic Indian dishes, faced a sudden setback as its lease was unexpectedly terminated earlier this month.
The restaurant’s owners and staff were taken aback on Dec. 19 when they found the locks changed and a notice from the property manager affixed to the door. The notice pointed to a persistent and strong smell, reportedly originating from Baba Chicken, which had been causing discomfort to the neighboring Envision Financial Services for an extended period.
Co-owner Bikram Nathowalia expressed dismay at the timing of the eviction, particularly during the festive season. “With 40 full-time employees suddenly without work, it’s a tough situation,” Nathowalia shared.
According to Value Property Group, the property manager, efforts to address issues with Baba Chicken’s ventilation system had been ongoing. CEO Chris Andison revealed that the odor had at times been so unbearable that it had forced Envision to close for the day, attributing the problem to the restaurant’s exhaust seeping into the adjacent space.
In response, Nathowalia and co-owner Vaninder Singh emphasized their cooperation in rectifying the situation. Singh stated, “We’ve met all requirements, from installing a grease trap to frequent ventilation cleanings. We’re committed to being good neighbors.”
Despite routine inspections by Fraser Health over the summer showing no significant concerns, Nathowalia expressed frustration at the characterization of his food’s aroma as offensive. He emphasized the importance of respect for his restaurant, culture, and community.
Andison highlighted the diverse cultural backgrounds of the property’s numerous tenants and reiterated the group’s commitment to supporting their businesses, though rare terminations were unavoidable in some cases.
As Baba Chicken faces the daunting task of vacating the premises by Jan. 9, perishable food meant for the bustling holiday period remains unused and the future of the popular restaurant hangs in the balance.