At ARTA, we spend a lot of time talking about excellence, but every so often, a restaurant reminds us what that word really looks like in practice.
Raj of India in Welwyn Garden City is one of those places. It’s the kind of restaurant locals recommend without hesitation, where regulars don’t need to look at the menu, and where quality never feels forced or flashy. That’s exactly why naming Raj of India Hertfordshire Restaurant of the Year at ARTA 2025 felt so natural.
In a county filled with strong competition, Raj of India has quietly built a reputation as one of the best restaurants in Hertfordshire, earning trust one plate at a time.
About ARTA
Why ARTA Matters in the UK Food Scene
The Asian Restaurant and Takeaway Awards (ARTA) exist for one reason: to recognise the restaurants that truly shape Britain’s Asian dining culture. Within the wider world of restaurant awards UK, ARTA focuses less on hype and more on real standards, the kind diners notice every time they walk through the door.
Our awards celebrate consistency, care, and community impact, placing winners alongside other respected honours, including the British Curry Awards, Asian Curry Awards, and National Curry Awards.
How Restaurants Are Chosen
ARTA winners are selected through a careful balance of:
- Customer feedback and reputation
- Industry-led judging
- Food quality, service, and operational excellence
It’s a process designed to ensure that when a restaurant wins, it’s because they’ve earned it, not because they’ve chased it.
ARTA 2025: The Night Itself
ARTA 2025 took place at the London Hilton, Park Lane, bringing together restaurateurs, chefs, sponsors, and industry leaders from across the UK. Hosted by Samantha Simmonds and Paul Martin, the evening celebrated the people behind Britain’s most respected award-winning curry restaurants, with live entertainment and a room full of shared pride.
A Well-Earned Win for Raj of India
Why Raj of India Stood Out
When our judges reviewed the Hertfordshire region, Raj of India kept coming up, and for good reason.
They noted:
- Food that delivers every single time
- A menu that respects classic Indian flavours
- Warm, attentive service that feels genuine
- A loyal customer base that speaks volumes
This is what defines an award-winning restaurant in Hertfordshire, and why Raj of India deserved the Regional Restaurant of the Year title.
From Regional Favourite to National Recognition
While this award celebrates Hertfordshire, it also places Raj of India firmly within national conversations around best Indian restaurant awards, curry restaurant of the year, and other prestigious food awards. It’s recognition that stretches beyond postcode pride.
The Journey Behind the Kitchen Doors
Built on Consistency, Not Trends
Raj of India’s story isn’t about chasing food fads. It’s about getting the fundamentals right and sticking to them. From its early days serving Welwyn Garden City to becoming a recognised name in UK food awards, the restaurant has grown steadily, without losing its identity.
A Clear Culinary Philosophy
The kitchen follows a simple principle: cook Indian food the way it should taste. That means bold flavours, balanced spices, and dishes that feel comforting rather than complicated. It’s an approach that naturally aligns with what ARTA looks for when recognising excellence in indian food awards.
Meeting the Standards That Matter
ARTA judges closely evaluate quality, consistency, and the customer experience. Raj of India delivers across all three, whether guests are dining in or ordering one of Hertfordshire’s best takeaway options.
Signature Dishes That Tell the Story
Some dishes explain a restaurant better than any write-up ever could:
- Tandoori Mixed Grill
Perfectly cooked, smoky, and full of flavour, a go-to for guests who want a bit of everything. - Tandoori King Prawn Masala
Rich without being heavy, with prawns that hold their texture and flavour beautifully. - Lamb Tikka Biryani
Fragrant rice, tender lamb, and spices that unfold slowly, a dish that keeps regulars coming back.
These favourites have helped cement Raj of India’s reputation among award-winning curry restaurants in the region.
A Restaurant That Gives Back to Its Community
Supporting Local Employment
Beyond the kitchen, Raj of India contributes to the local economy by providing stable employment and supporting the surrounding community.
More Than Just a Restaurant
From local events to community connections, the restaurant plays an active role in Hertfordshire life, something we value deeply at ARTA when recognising South Asian restaurant awards winners.
Media Recognition That Confirms the Win
Raj of India’s achievement has also been recognised by the national media.
This achievement was featured in national media:
Raj of India named as Hertfordshire Restaurant of the Year
Why ARTA Continues to Champion Asian Cuisine
At its heart, ARTA is about people. Food has always been a bridge between cultures. Through awards such as the Curry Chef Awards, Best Takeaway Awards, and Asian Cuisine Awards, we celebrate the restaurants that strengthen that bridge every day.
Raj of India’s win reminds us why these awards matter, not just to the industry, but to the communities these restaurants serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes Raj of India Hertfordshire Restaurant of the Year?
Consistency, quality food, and strong community trust set it apart from other restaurants. - Is Raj of India considered one of the best restaurants in Hertfordshire?
Yes, both customer loyalty and ARTA recognition confirm its standing. - Does Raj of India offer takeaway as well as dine-in?
Yes, it’s widely recognised for offering one of the best takeaway experiences locally. - How does ARTA differ from other UK restaurant awards?
ARTA focuses on real-world performance, customer trust, and long-term excellence.
5. Where can I find Raj of India?
Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire
Website: https://www.rajofindiawgc.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Rajofindiawgc/
