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Even the most hardcore spicy food fan might be unaware that last night (October 12) was the biggest, most glittering event in the UK’s curry calendar: the Asian Restaurant & Takeaway Awards. This annual ceremony celebrates the very best South Asian eateries up and down the country, hunting down exceptional chefs from the Isle of Wight to Bangor to Glasgow.
This year, more than 1,250 restaurants were nominated, and more than 50 individual awards were given out. But we know that you, as a hungry Londoner, care most about the restaurants within this city's limits.
There are four London categories in the awards, one for each corner of the capital. A fifth London spot also took home the crown for National Takeaway of the Year. So, here are the local spots to seek out for a truly excellent meal.
Every London winner at the Asian Restaurant & Takeaway Awards 2026
North London Restaurant of the Year: Taste of Nawab, Muswell Hill
This small family-run eatery serves a mix of Indian and Bengali dishes from its glass-fronted spot in Muswell Hill. It's built up a strong following since it opened in 1996, making this award is a triumphant celebration of three decades in business.
Central & West London Restaurant of the Year: Tajmahal Indian Cuisine, King’s Cross
Just metres from Kings Cross station sits central London's official champion: Taj Mahal, which features technicolour murals of the landmark it's named after, emblazoned across its walls. With velvet booths and an intimate bar, this is a luxe spot for your next Indian meal.
City & East London Restaurant of the Year: Grand Rasoi Restaurant, Mile End
If you've never visited this Mile End institution, it's time to make it your mission to visit. Grand Rasoi is famous for its groaning buffet of Bengali dishes, available from noon til late, every day of the week, for just £16.95. Come hungry, and feast on bhortas, bajis, fish curries and pani puri galore.
South London Restaurant of the Year: Shad Indian Restaurant, London Bridge
Wander down Tooley Street in London Bridge and you might well miss Shad, a white-fronted high street restaurant catering both to locals and tourists. Accordingly, you'll find something to suit all comers on its menu, including chips, 'Indian Shepherds Pie', and house specialities such as duck and soft shell crab.
National Takeaway of the Year: Kaani Kaana, Upminster
This affordable spot is dedicated to pleasing all its customers: there are vegan options, low carbon footprint dishes, mildly spiced classic curries, aromatic Bengali homestyle dishes, or tasty street food options, all available for delivery from its three restaurants.
Still hungry? Here's Time Out's pick of the best Indian and South Asian restaurants in London.
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