Support Us Button Widget

Chef Cheetie Kumar is bringing vibrant food to Five Points

The Garland team will open a new concept called Ajja near downtown.

Cheetie Kumar sitting on a bartop with Paul Siler beside her.

Paul Siler and Cheetie Kumar collaborated to create Ajja.

Photo by Baxter Miller

Garland Chef Cheetie Kumar and partner Paul Siler plan to open a new restaurant in Raleigh’s Five Points very soon. Ajja, meaning “come over” in Hindi/Urdu, will feature foods from different cultures made with vibrant spices and different cooking techniques drawn from the Mediterranean and the Middle East.

Much like the now shuttered Garland, this foodie destination will continue the restaurant’s tradition of highlighting the rich story of NC’s growers by using fresh ingredients. Along with its stylish indoor space, the eatery will include an outdoor bar, extensive dining area under a covered patio, and a large fire pit with views of Raleigh’s skyline.

Adjacent to Anisette Sweet Shop, guests can expect shareable menu items like skewered grilled meats and veggies with bold flavors.

An opening date has not yet been announced, but you can sign up for updates on Ajja’s website. Plus, we’ll keep you in the loop.

More from RALtoday
Dig into delicious and nutritious vegan and vegetarian fare in every corner of Raleigh.
From the floral backdrop to the customized ring — we’re dreaming of having our own viral engagement in Oak City.
The Pack is back in Carter-Finley on Thursday, Aug. 28 — here’s what you need to know while rooting for NC State football this season.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Have you ever thought “That’s an odd place for a bar.” Well in Raleigh, there is no such thing as odd for these spots around town.
After its March closure, a new team with ties to the former ownership group of 42nd Street Oyster Bar has expressed interest in reopening the Raleigh staple as early as February 2026. Read up on readers’ memories from this local gem.
Learn about the biggest industries and employers in Wake County with this guide to local business.
NC State’s men’s and women’s basketball teams are joining forces for their exhibition games against South Carolina + Maryland, respectively, ahead of promising seasons.
Our readers dogeared these parks for us while we dream of this concept founded in South Korea’s capital city.
Electric-assist bikes are coming to downtown Raleigh, and they can start and stop just about anywhere. Here’s what you need to know before you hit the road.