The Asian Restaurant and Takeaway Awards (ARTA) celebrate the best of South Asian cuisine across the UK, recognising restaurants and takeaways for excellence in food quality, service, and contribution to their local communities.
Judges look for authenticity of dishes, consistency, innovation, customer experience, and overall impact on the local dining scene.
The awards highlight both established favourites and hidden gems, giving recognition to businesses that excel in bringing South Asian flavours to a wider audience.
The awards ceremony will take place on October 6 at the London Hilton Park Lane, where the winners will be announced.
Here are this year’s south east London finalists:
Malabar Feast, Peckham
If you’re after authentic South Indian flavours, Malabar Feast on 4 Maxted Road in Peckham has been highlighted by judges for its Kerala-inspired cooking.
The restaurant offers a cosy, intimate dining space with room for around 10 guests, alongside a popular takeaway service. Its menu features classic dishes like Alleppey Fish Curry, Kayal Prawn Curry and a range of vegetarian favourites including aubergine curry and red beans thoran.
Customers have praised it as a “hidden gem in Peckham” with “excellent dosa and biryani” and some of the best spinach dal around.
In a statement on their website, the owners say: “At Malabar Feast, we offer more than just a meal; we serve you an experience, a voyage through the rich, diverse flavors of Malabar cuisine.
“Our restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it’s a place where the heart of Malabar’s culinary tradition meets the spirit of warm hospitality.”
Malabar Feast is open every day from 11am to 10pm.
Nazran’s Indian & Punjabi Cuisine, Catford
Nazran’s has become a neighbourhood favourite in Catford for its generous portions and hearty Punjabi-style cooking.
The menu features everything from sizzling mixed grills and lamb chops to paneer butter masala, prawn jalfrezi and a wide selection of vegetarian dishes.
It also offers Indo-Chinese flavours alongside classic Indian favourites.
Reviewers say it is a “stunningly good Indian takeaway” where the mixed grill and seafood dishes stand out, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it a local treasure.
The owners say their passion is to “provide the best quality food and service” and that customers can expect “freshly cooked and delicious Indian and Punjabi cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere and courteous culture of Indian hospitality”.
Nazran’s Indian & Punjabi Cuisine is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 2pm to 10pm.
Passage to India Takeaway, Norwood
First opened in 2012, Passage to India in Norwood has built its reputation on a wide pan-Indian menu and freshly prepared dishes.
From Hyderabadi biryani to chilli chicken, jalfrezi and chicken tikka masala, the menu covers both classic curries and regional specialities.
Vegetarian options are also well represented, with dishes cooked to order using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Customers describe it as “really tasty, not at all greasy and very reasonably priced”, with many calling it their go-to regular for a Friday night curry.
A statement on their website says: “Our team believes that the best meals come from fresh, high-quality ingredients.
“We source the finest spices and herbs directly from India and handpick the best local produce.
“Every dish is prepared with love, passion, and a deep respect for the culinary traditions of India.”
Passage to India Takeaway is open every day from 4.30pm to 11pm.
Mohammed Munim, Founder Member and CEO of ARTA, said: “Asian restaurants and takeaways have long played a vital role in the UK’s economy and culture.
“Their contribution through job creation, community impact, and culinary excellence, deserves to be recognised.
“Especially in today’s challenging climate, ARTA is proud to champion their achievements and support their continued success.
“Every nominee is a testament to the industry’s resilience, and we look forward to celebrating them on 6th October.”
