A Persian restaurant is at risk of being stripped of its alcohol and entertainment licence following multiple reports of hosting unauthorised shisha smoking and belly dancing events.

Shanzelize, in Kilburn, is subject to a review after Brent Council officers claimed it breached the terms of its licence on several occasions. 

In a report set to be presented to the council’s licensing sub-committee, officers explained the restaurant was using an outdoor tent area to hold events not permitted by its current licence. 

These included belly dancing performances, shisha smoking and late-night music events.

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It followed a number of noise complaints from local residents and evidence the restaurant had been open outside the hours permitted by its licence. 

One resident said it was like living “in the middle of a live concert”, while others said it was “unbearably loud”, especially during the weekends and around public holidays.

The council officers’ report argued the main restaurant area, which is licensed to serve alcohol and have live entertainment until midnight each night, is being used as a thoroughfare to get to a “nightclub” part of the site. 

Officers suggested the current set-up is “irresponsible”, a fact highlighted by “several complaints from residents in regards to noise” and a lack of staff training in place.

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They said the council had “exhausted all avenues” to encourage the licence holder, Hashem Beik Mohammadi, to improve things but that he “failed to address these matters seriously”.

The council was supported by licensing officers from the Metropolitan Police, who said they have “little confidence” Mr Mohammadi would be able to turn things around. 

Despite these concerns, one letter of support for the business was submitted to the council. 

It noted the restaurant is “less frequented by emergency services” when compared to other similar places in Kilburn and that its staff have always been “respectful” to their surroundings. 

The letter read: “The Shanzelize is contributing to Kilburn High Rd. It is adding to its vibrancy and reflecting its community. I would ask you not to revoke its licence but to encourage it to grow safely.”

The Local Democracy Reporting Service contacted The Shanzelize for comment.