Namak South Woodford head chef named best in England

Ravindra Singh, head chef at Namak in High Road, was named national curry chef of the year.at the UK Curry Championships 2025.

His work was also given gold for the best dish in the competition.

Rajesh Suri, director of operations at Namak, said: “Ravindra is an exceptional chef.

Ravindra Singh (left) and Rajesh Suri (right) (Image: Rajesh Suri)“He made a lot of changes to the kitchen focussing on fresh ingredients that are locally sourced.

“He has green beliefs and likes zero wastage.”

According to Rajesh, hundreds of chefs apply for the competition and are whittled down through competitive rounds until 15 remain.

“The judges don’t decide easily, they are highly acclaimed industry professionals and they have to chose carefully who will be the winner.”

Ravindra joined Namak seven months ago (Image: Rajesh Suri) Namak opened in September 2023 but Ravindra joined seven months ago.

He said: “Working at Namak  is a privilege and I am very thankful to the owner Ramandeep Singh who trusted me in this position as head chef and gave me this platform where I can try my best and help grow the business by offering the highest quality Indian cuisine to our guests in east London.

“Like every professional person, chefs needs recognition for their ongoing hard work and commitment and I am very thankful for my award as the best curry chef in the UK.

Namak opened in September 2023 (Image: Rajesh Suri) “This award encourages me even more in my profession.” 

Ravindra also placed gold for the best dish of the competition – pan seared scallops with a broccoli, cauliflower and nutmeg puree.

“Cooking is my passion,” he said.

“My intentions are always to put my best into my work and I just left it to others to decide if they think my cooking deserves an award.

Ravindra said cooking is his passion (Image: Rajesh Suri) “I’d like to thank the team at Namak, both in the kitchen and front of house, who work extremely hard as a one unit to deliver the best Indian food complemented by the best service.”

Rajesh, who has worked at Namak for almost a year, added: “I think it’s a proud moment for east London considering there were chefs from all over the country and a small, local restaurant won.

“Nearby people are blessed to have Namak here – they don’t need to go to the West End for great food.

“Chef Ravindra was a deserved outright winner and Namak also deserves this – more people should know what a gem there is in the local area.”