Between staff rotas, supplier calls, the Friday night rush, and that one customer who sends the curry back because it’s “too spicy” (even though they asked for extra chilli), you’ve already got your hands full. Soon you realise, running a restaurant isn’t easy!
But somewhere in the middle of all that, you might have wondered, “Could my place actually win an award?”
Well, if we’re talking about the ARTA curry award, then yes, you could. And you should give it a go, because winning a curry award in the UK isn’t just a nice ego boost. It’s the kind of thing that makes people travel a bit further, order an extra dish, and tell their mates about “this place that’s apparently one of the best in the country.”
Why ARTA’s Worth a Look
The Asian Restaurant and Takeaway Awards (ARTA) aren’t some small-time pat-on-the-back event. These guys celebrate the curry restaurant champions of the UK, the chefs and teams who turn out food so good it sticks in your memory long after the last bite.
Win one of these and you’re not just getting a trophy. You’re getting your name in the paper, a spike in bookings, and a whole new level of credibility. The best curry awards UK winners often see the difference within weeks, more customers, better table spends, and a bit of local celebrity status.
Step One: The Food Has to Be Spot-On
Sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how many places slip up here. To win an ARTA curry award, your food can’t just be good sometimes. It has to be incredible every single time.
That means your best curry dish has to wow people even on the busiest Saturday night when your kitchen’s running flat-out and the fryer’s making that worrying noise again. Judges (and customers) can taste when a curry has been rushed. They can also taste when someone’s taken the time to get the balance of spices just right.
Step Two: Your Customers Are Your Secret Weapon
Here’s something a lot of restaurants don’t realise, many ARTA nominations come from the public. So the people tucking into your biryani on a Wednesday night? They could be the ones who get your name on that shortlist.
Make them feel part of your journey. Put up a little sign near the till about the awards. Post on Instagram and ask them to nominate you. Let them know how they too can benefit from nominating your restaurant. It’s not begging, it’s just letting your fans know they can help you out.
Step Three: Keep It Consistent
Winning restaurants aren’t just good on their best day, they’re good on their worst. If you want to be one of the top curry restaurants in the UK, you can’t drop the ball when you’re short-staffed or when your supplier sends the wrong rice.
ARTA judges don’t want one perfect night; they want to see that you can deliver the same quality again and again. So even when things are hectic, make sure the food going out still has your signature standard.
Step Four: Let People In on Your Story
A great curry is memorable. A great curry with a story is unforgettable. Your menu may be based on recipes from your hometown. Maybe you’ve blended traditional methods with a modern twist. Maybe you’re just obsessed with making the perfect naan.
Tell that story, on your menu, in interviews, on social media. People love to know what’s behind the food they’re eating, and judges are no different.
Step Five: Act Like You’ve Already Won
This might sound a bit cheeky, but it works. The restaurants that become curry restaurant champions usually already look and feel like award-winners before they actually win.
That means clean, inviting décor. Social media that’s active and full of tempting photos. A website that works on mobile (because yes, people do check it before booking). And when you get shortlisted, shout about it, press releases, special offers, and posts online. Build that buzz.
After You Win
Here’s the thing: the award night isn’t the end. It’s the start of a new chapter. Put that ARTA curry award on your menu, in your window, and in every online bio you’ve got. Mention it in your ads.
I’ve seen restaurants go from busy to booked out for weeks after winning. Some get TV spots, some start selling their sauces in supermarkets, and some even expand. But only if they use the award as fuel, not just decoration.
FAQ: Winning a Curry Award in the UK
- How do I get nominated for the ARTA Curry Award?
Most nominations come from customers, so keep them happy and encourage them to nominate you. - Do I have to pay to enter the awards?
Not usually, but check the category details. - What makes a dish “award-worthy”?
Something that nails flavour, presentation, and leaves a lasting impression. - Can takeaway restaurants win?
Yep, plenty of the best curry awards UK winners are takeaway-only.
5. How quickly does winning help your business?
Sometimes, within weeks, especially if you shout about it online and locally.
