The Asian Restaurants & Takeaway Awards (ARTA), dubbed the “Curry Oscars,” are all about celebrating the best of the UK’s amazing curry scene. This year, ARTA 2024 went above and beyond, shining a spotlight on the talented chefs and fantastic restaurants across the country, from small local takeaways to national champions. It’s truly the “Oscars of the Curry Industry,” and we’re here to introduce you to all the winners who made a real impact.
These awards are driven by customer nominations based on the quality of food, quality of service, and value for money. It’s this genuine customer feedback that highlights the winning restaurants’ dedication to excellence—ensuring every meal bursts with flavour, every interaction feels special, and every pound spent is worth it. Ultimately, it’s all about creating a dining experience that keeps customers coming back for more. Let’s dive in and check out the national champs, regional stars, and those who really took their cooking to the next level.
National Awards
Champion of Champions: Radhuni Lounge • Restaurant
This year’s big winner, Radhuni Lounge • Restaurant, really stood out from the rest. With their top-notch service, incredible dishes, and the perfect blend of traditional and modern recipes, it’s no wonder they won the “Champion of Champions” award. Whether you’re after an intimate dinner or a big celebration, Radhuni Lounge delivers the kind of flavours and hospitality that make them the best in the country.
National Chef of the Year: Colombo Kitchen
The National Chef of the Year title went to Colombo Kitchen, and it’s easy to see why. Their imaginative, flavour-packed dishes wowed the judges and diners alike. Colombo Kitchen has taken classic recipes and given them a creative twist that really stands out, making it a true star of the Curry Oscars.
National Takeaway of the Year: Bombay Cuisine
Everyone loves a good takeaway, and Bombay Cuisine has crowned the National Takeaway of the Year for a reason. They consistently deliver high-quality food that makes you feel like you’re dining in a top restaurant but from the comfort of your own home. Warm, authentic, and absolutely delicious—Bombay Cuisine has set the takeaway standard.
Newcomer of the Year: My Delhi, Leicester
New on the scene and making waves, My Delhi, Leicester, won the Newcomer of the Year award. They bring a fun, street food-inspired vibe to traditional and modern dishes, giving diners an experience full of life and flavour. For a newcomer, they’ve already made a huge mark on the UK curry scene.
Street Food Restaurant of the Year: Chakh Dhoom
This year’s Street Food Restaurant of the Year is Chakh Dhoom. If you’re after bold, authentic Indian street food, this is the spot. Their dishes are packed with big, bold flavours that transport you straight to the bustling streets of India. With a menu that’s dynamic and a vibe that’s just as vibrant, Chakh Dhoom definitely earned their win.
Asian Fusion Restaurant of the Year: Yakitori House
The award for Asian Fusion Restaurant of the Year went to Yakitori House, who really impressed with their creative blend of East Asian influences. Mixing Japanese yakitori with other Asian flavours, Yakitori House celebrates fusion in the best possible way—deliciously and inventively.
Japanese Restaurant of the Year: Sakura Finest Limited
The Japanese Restaurant of the Year award went to Sakura Finest Limited. From melt-in-your-mouth sushi to perfectly crispy tempura, they serve up elegant, authentic Japanese food that really hits the spot. It’s no surprise that the Curry Oscars recognised Sakura Finest Limited for their excellence.
Regional Restaurant of the Year
ARTA also celebrated the amazing regional restaurants that bring their communities together through incredible food. Here are this year’s regional champs:
- Essex Region: Pride of Sylhet took the crown in Essex with its signature Bangladeshi flavours and unwavering quality.
- Hertfordshire Region: Ginger Bar & Restaurant won in Hertfordshire thanks to its fantastic mix of traditional and modern dishes.
- Kent Region: Jumeira Indian Restaurant impressed everyone with its authentic Indian cuisine, earning the top spot in Kent.
- North East Region: Babul’s, Darlington won for its dedication to delivering incredible flavours while celebrating heritage.
- North London Region: Yaki Ya! was crowned the best in North London for its fantastic menu.
- North West Region: Indian Lounge Restaurant continues to impress with amazing food and warm hospitality, keeping them at the top.
- South Central Region: Radhuni Lounge • Restaurant claimed another win here, proving they’re truly a champion.
- South West Region: Mint Bay was recognised for its coastal-inspired cuisine that brings a fresh taste from the Indian Ocean.
- North Wales Region: Benllech Tandoori Restaurant won for its consistently authentic and satisfying Indian dishes.
- South Wales Region: Sheesh Mahal was awarded for their expertly crafted curries and extensive menu.
- Northern Ireland Region: Nu Delhi Restaurant Lounge impressed with their fusion dishes and fantastic service.
- West Midlands Region: Monsoon Restaurant (Hollywood) stole the show with unbeatable tandoori specials.
- East Anglia Region: Curry Palace won for their classic dishes that celebrate South Asian heritage.
- Scotland Region: Monsoona Healthy Indian Cuisine took the top spot for offering healthier yet flavourful takes on traditional favourites.
- Surrey Region: Yaadein Authentic Indian Restaurant won for providing a real taste of India in Surrey.
- Sussex Region: Darchini came out on top with a menu that blends classic and modern dishes perfectly.
- City & East London Region: City Spice, Brick Lane made East London proud with their iconic flavours and top-notch service.
- Central & West London Region: Paro, Covent Garden won this category for their modern take on Asian classics.
- East Midlands Region: Jomidar Lounge captured the East Midlands crown with their inviting vibe and outstanding dishes.
Regional Chef of the Year
The Curry Oscars also honoured some fantastic regional chefs who wowed everyone with their culinary creations:
- Rajbari, Bristol (South West Region) – Showcasing regional excellence.
- The Vine Indian Cuisine (North East Region) – Amazing dedication to flavour.
- Colombo Kitchen (Surrey Region) – Creative dishes that shine.
- RAJ KITCHEN By Chef Raj Chowdhury (Wales Region) – Master of spice blending.
- Tamarind Indian Restaurant (Sussex Region) – Dishes full of life and flavour.
- JILANI (East Anglia Region) – Expertly balanced flavours.
- Imli Restaurant (North West Region) – Reimagined classic flavours.
- The Coriander (Essex Region) – Top finesse in Indian cooking.
- ABBOTS TANDOORI (Hertfordshire Region) – Staying true to authentic roots.
- The Spice Lounge (East Midlands Region) – Consistent and perfect curry dishes.
Regional Takeaway of the Year
And for those nights when you just want an amazing takeaway, here are the regional takeaway winners:
- Bombay Cuisine (North West Region) – National and regional winner.
- Eastern Spice (Ipswich) (East Anglia) – Consistently delicious food.
- SHER-E-BANGLA INDIAN TAKEAWAY (Kent) – Unmatched takeaway flavours.
- Saffron Kitchen (South Wales) – Fantastic takeaway service.
- Curry Tree (Essex Region) – Authentic modern tastes.
- Amir’s Balti House, Retford (East Midlands) – A classic winner.
- Mohini Balti House (Surrey) – Authentic tastes delivered.
- Saffron Indian Takeaway (Hertfordshire) – Delicious at-home flavours.
- Malik’s Express (South Central Region) – Trendy takeaway vibes.
- Gurkha Kitchen (Scotland) – Himalayan excellence in every bite.
Final Thoughts
The Asian Restaurants & Takeaway Awards 2024 have truly showcased the incredible talent in the UK’s curry industry. This “Oscars of the Curry Industry” event highlights the diversity, creativity, and pure culinary magic found in Asian cuisine.
All the chefs, restaurants, and takeaways honoured here are part of something special—a celebration of heritage, passion, and amazing food. Congrats to all the winners for keeping the spirit of the Curry Oscars alive and thriving! If you’re looking for some inspiration for your next meal, any of these amazing places will hit the spot.
