A FAMILY business which has branched out to a new restaurant has been Highly Commended in the BEN Eating Out awards.

The Moghul's Palace on St Georges Road, Bolton opened only a matter of months ago in a landmark old building at a busy junction.

It marked a second successful local venture for the five Alom brothers, who have won a Highly Commended award for the Saajan Restaurant in Winter Hey Lane, Horwich in the past.

Their latest venture was to take over the former historic pub, which has been a restaurant in recent years.

"We had been looking around for another building for some time," explained Kubbar Alom. "I saw this one and wanted it, but missed it when it was for sale.

"I always liked it and when we finally got the building, I said its lovely old fittings looked like a moghul's palace -- so we called it that!"

Certainly, the warm wood and brass fittings and sympathetic restoration teamed with established restaurant expertise have proved a winning combination.

The food, too, has helped.

Kubbar -- an award-winning chef -- has another prizewinner in charge of the bustling kitchen in the form of Mosharaf Ali.

They head a large team in what has become a popular eaterie.

"We do try to bring lots of different dishes here, and we will change the menu every six months," added Kubbar.

Their secret is to roast individual spices, and then grind them down -- no powder here."

The BEN award -- one of only two annually -- is very welcome, as Kubbar states:"It really means a lot to us."

But the brothers are not content to rest on their laurels.

As well as a major recent refurbishment at the Saajan and regular full-houses at both establishments, they now plan further restaurants around Bolton. "And possibly another award," said Kubbar, smiling.