North East restaurants have won big at the English Curry Awards 2023.

The awards, which are now in their 12th year, helps to celebrate the best curry houses and chefs across the country.

Among the lucky winners at the ceremony, which took place on Monday (August 14) at The Holiday Inn in Birmingham City Centre, many top names from the region won their individual categories.

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The prestigious event recognised and celebrated the talents and hard work of individuals and businesses within the English curry industry.

Categories included Chef of the Year, Voter’s Best Choice Restaurant of the Year, Curry King or Queen, and Curry Restaurant of the Year.

This included My Delhi Indian Streetery in Newcastle, which won two awards, alongside Soho Tavern in Gateshead, and Zeera Indian Cuisine in South Shields.

Further afield, in Northumberland, Dhamaka in Cramlington and Morpeth Tandoori also triumphed in their respective categories.

Here's the full list of North East and Northumberland winners:

  • Street Food Restaurant of the Year: My Delhi Indian Streetery (Newcastle)
  • Customer Experience of the Year North East: My Delhi Indian Streetery (Newcastle)
  • Curry Restaurant of the Year North East: Soho Tavern (Gateshead)
  • Restaurant of the Year North East: Zeera Indian Cuisine (South Shields)
  • New Restaurant of the Year: Dhamaka (Cramlington)
  • Takeaway of the Year North East: Morpeth Tandoori (Morpeth)

Award organisers said the event celebrated "England’s rich and diverse curry culture and encourages the continued growth and evolution of the industry - the winners have distinguished themselves with their exceptional quality, innovation, and consistency in offering a truly memorable dining experience". 

A spokesperson said it was "an unforgettable night, filled with incredible food, vibrant energy, and passionate conversations". 

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They added: “We have celebrated the finest in the English curry scene, recognising the creativity, innovation, and exceptional service that have become synonymous with this beloved cuisine.

“The curry industry is a vital part of our culture, and these awards recognised the exceptional talents of the individuals and businesses that make it so special.

"Congratulations to all the winners and nominees, and thank you to everyone who participated and supported this event."