A collection of historical images showcasing Indian dining establishments in Oxford and the surrounding region has been released, tracing the development of the culinary sector over recent decades.

The archive features photographs of eateries located throughout the city centre and beyond, including venues in nearby towns and villages that have cultivated devoted patronage for their interpretations of traditional South Asian cooking.

Oxford’s restaurant landscape in the early 2000s bore similarities to the present day, with numerous establishments offering international cuisine to diners.

Among those highlighted in the collection is Al Mumbai Indian Restaurant, where head chef Muhammed Ali was named among the finalists for the International Chef of the Year award.

Also featured are Qumins Indian Restaurant in the St Clement’s area and Majliss on Cowley Road.

Establishments situated outside the city boundaries, including venues in locations such as Long Wittenham and Abingdon, appear in the imagery, demonstrating the role such restaurants have played within their local communities over the years.