Every year at ARTA, we get to see some real gems from all over the UK, places that graft day in, day out, feeding their local communities with proper flavour, warmth, and hospitality. But this year, one South London spot really stood out for us. Saka Maka, tucked away in Hither Green, walked away with the Regional Restaurant of the Year: South London at ARTA 2025, and honestly, it felt like the whole room was cheering for them.
If you’ve ever eaten there, you’ll know exactly why.
About ARTA
What ARTA Actually Stands For
We get a lot of people asking what makes ARTA different from other restaurant awards in the UK, especially with things like the British Curry Awards, Asian Curry Awards, national curry awards, and all the rest happening every year.
To put it simply: ARTA is all about celebrating the curry houses, takeaways, and Asian restaurants that keep Britain’s food scene alive. It’s not just about fancy plates; it’s about consistency, graft, community, and proper flavour.
How We Choose the Winners
We don’t just look at glossy photos or one-off reviews. Restaurants go through:
- Public nominations
- A judging panel that actually sits down and eats the food
- Checks on service, cleanliness, consistency, and community impact
It’s a long process, but it’s what makes ARTA one of the most trusted Asian cuisine awards in the country.
The Night Itself – A Bit of Magic at Park Lane
The awards night at the London Hilton, Park Lane, was buzzing. Samantha Simmonds kept things running smoothly, and Paul Martin brought the laughs. We had top sponsors, industry faces, entertainers, and a room full of chefs who’d spent the year sweating over stoves and perfecting recipes.
It’s one of those events where everyone feels proud, win or lose.
A Proud Win – Regional Restaurant of the Year: South London
Why We Picked Saka Maka
Saka Maka didn’t get lucky. They earned it.
What stood out for the judges?
- Consistency, every dish, every visit, spot on.
- Warm, down-to-earth service, no fuss, no pretence.
- Proper flavour, bold, balanced, and rooted in tradition.
- Innovation when it matters, classics done right, and new dishes done with care.
In a year absolutely packed with strong contenders from across South London, Saka Maka didn’t just hold their own, they led from the front.
Local Win, National Stage
Winning a regional title might sound small to some, but anyone in the industry knows it’s huge. It puts Saka Maka in the same conversation as previous Curry Champion Award winners and some of the top Indian restaurants in the UK.
This award shows where they stand: solid, respected, and now a benchmark for others.
The Journey Behind the Flavours
Every restaurant we award has a story, and Saka Maka’s is one we genuinely loved hearing.
How It All Started
The founders didn’t come in trying to be “the best restaurant in South London”. They just wanted a place where proper home-style flavour met restaurant-quality cooking. Bit by bit, the place grew a proper loyal crowd from Hither Green, Catford, Lewisham, and beyond.
The Chef’s Way of Doing Things
Their head chef works with a simple philosophy:
- Use ingredients you’d be proud to serve at home
- Respect the traditions
- Never cut corners
- Add your own touch, but don’t overdo it
It’s the kind of mindset that always shines through during judging.
Why They Met ARTA’s Standards So Easily
ARTA looks for:
- Innovation
- Quality
- Sustainability
- Community value
- Real, honest cooking
Saka Maka ticked every box, and then some.
Signature Dishes and Favourites
If you’ve never eaten there, here are the dishes that made us stop mid-conversation at the judging table:
Fauji Lamb Curry
Rich, comforting, layered – the kind of curry you end up scooping long after you’ve technically “finished”.
Butter Chicken
Smooth, creamy, not too sweet, and genuinely one of the best versions we tasted in the entire South London region.
Chicken Bukni Kebab
Soft, smoky, hits you with proper spice. Perfect with a fresh naan.
Whether you’re searching for the best takeaway, an award-winning curry, or just something reliable for a Saturday night, these dishes are what keep regulars coming back.
The Region’s Culinary Pride and Community Impact
Saka Maka isn’t just a restaurant. It’s part of the area.
Local Jobs
They employ local staff, train young people, and keep things as community-based as possible.
Charity Work
They quietly support local charities, food drives, and community events, nothing flashy, just a genuine contribution.
A Positive Mark on UK Food Awards
Restaurants like this raise the bar for everyone. They remind people why the UK’s Indian food scene is world-class.
Media Recognition
They’ve now been highlighted in national coverage, adding even more shine to their award.
This achievement was featured in national media as they wrote about South London restaurants wins the Regional restaurant of the year award.
ARTA’s Role in Championing Asian Cuisine in the UK
One thing we always stand by at ARTA is that food brings people together. Asian cuisine in the UK tells a story of migration, community, graft, and shared culture. Our job is to make sure that the story stays alive.
We champion:
- multiculturalism
- culinary innovation
- new chefs coming up
- Restaurants that keep tradition alive
- community spirit
Saka Maka embodies all of that.
FAQ
- Why did Saka Maka win the South London award?
Because they showed outstanding consistency, quality, flavour, and community involvement. - How are ARTA winners chosen?
Through public nominations and a detailed judging process. - What makes ARTA different from other curry awards?
We focus on community value, authenticity, and long-term consistency, not just one night of great cooking. - Does this award help restaurants grow?
Absolutely. Past winners often report higher footfall, more bookings, and stronger local support. - Can any restaurant enter ARTA?
Yes, nominations are open nationwide, covering restaurants, takeaways, and chefs.
