Lishkara Punjabi restaurant opens on Havelock Street in Swindon town centre

Swindon24 reported on Sunday 12 July 2026 that Lishkara had welcomed its first customers on Saturday 11 July. The restaurant is on Havelock Street in Swindon town centre, in a unit that had been standing empty.

What does Lishkara serve?

North Indian Punjabi food, cooked around a traditional clay tandoor in the centre of the kitchen. Chef Rekha Gill said nothing is bought in frozen: "Everything we bring to the plate is made in Lishkara." Her own favourite dish is chana bhatura.

Ms Gill spent years working towards the opening after moving to Swindon, and plans to develop Lishkara as a brand. A Mr Sim told Swindon24 that about 80% of the refurbishment was done by himself, his father-in-law and other family members.

The Mayor of Swindon, Neil Hopkins, attended the opening and helped out in the kitchen. He said: "There is always a risk in opening a business, and I wish them every success for the future."

Why Havelock Street?

Mr Sim said the street's growing name as a place to eat was a main reason for choosing it. Lishkara joins Brazilian, Portuguese, Turkish and Italian restaurants, cafes and dessert bars there.

Neighbouring traders told Swindon24 that many shops on the street have closed while food businesses have opened. Heloisa de Souza of Caffini said a lot of the town "basically shuts at five". Long-standing trader Vince Ayris suggested better parking, decorative lighting and a stronger evening economy.

The report did not give opening hours.

Source: Swindon24.