A restaurant has redeemed itself and improved its food hygiene rating following a previous scathing inspection report.  

Abbots Tandoori in Langley Road has scored 5/5 after its most recent food inspection on January 16.

The “very good” rating is a significant improvement from its last inspection on September 26, 2022, when the restaurant received a 1/5 score.

Watford Observer: The manager said he was proud of the new ratingThe manager said he was proud of the new rating (Image: Abbots Tandoori)

It’s manager Khalil Rahman told the Watford Observer: “We are so proud of this new rating and feel so confident.”

He said improvements were made the day after the September inspection.

“Everything that was highlighted in the report we have changed according to the inspector’s instructions,” he said.

Mr Rahman added: “Staff have had new training. We have improved the cleaning in the kitchen and bought new equipment for the kitchen as well, including a new fridge and freezer.’

In addition to the staff training, the inspector advised that all staff working in rooms where food is handled wear snoods and hats.

The restaurant, which has been open for 35 years, came under fire for several reasons during the September inspection.

It was found that raw meat was stored inadequately with no use by date, labelling or storage instructions.

Rice was being stored at incorrect temperatures and food debris was visible in several locations.

Mr Rahman said: “We felt very disappointed with ourselves when we received a rating of 1.

“We have never been through anything like this before.”

According to Mr Rahman, the low rating has affected business.

He said: “I lost customers, but trade is now picking up.

“I would like to say to my customers and I want to welcome you all back with confidence.”

Despite the drop in customer numbers, some of his regulars have been supportive of Mr Rahman and the team.

He said: “I have been accommodating people for such a long time, customers have phoned in and said they were supporting me after the rating of 1 came out.”

Not only has trade been slow, but the restaurant has struggled with the cost of living crisis.

But he said: “It’s not just us, it’s all kinds of restaurants and businesses.

"Everyone is struggling.”