Good food alone doesn’t guarantee queues out the door. You need something extra, something that makes people stop scrolling, pick up the phone, and place an order.
For many in the Asian food scene, that “something” is recognition from the Asian Restaurant & Takeaway Awards, better known as ARTA. It’s not just a fancy night out with trophies and speeches. It’s a seal of approval that can turn a steady little business into the go-to spot in town.
Places that were ticking along nicely one week suddenly found themselves in the local paper the next. Sales go up, bookings pile in, and even that one grumpy regular starts leaving nicer reviews.
Why ARTA Matters More Than You Think
You might be thinking, “Awards are for big city restaurants with celebrity chefs, right?” Not at all. The ARTA takeaway awards have a habit of putting small family-run kitchens on the map.
Unlike some awards that focus purely on fine dining, ARTA celebrates the kind of food people actually order and love, Friday night curries, late-night biryanis, and dumplings that taste just like home. This isn’t about gold leaf on naan bread; it’s about honest, delicious cooking and proper hospitality.
And here’s the best bit, customers themselves often kickstart the nomination process. Which means if you’ve been making them happy, you might already be halfway there.
The Business Boost of Being Named Best Asian Takeaway UK
Let’s be straight, having “award-winning” attached to your name changes things.
There was a little takeaway in Birmingham that won last year. Within a month, they’d had to hire two more delivery drivers just to keep up. Another place in London started getting catering bookings for corporate events because people assumed “ARTA winner” meant “if it’s good enough for the judges, it’s good enough for us.”
It’s free publicity you couldn’t buy even if you wanted to. And it doesn’t just last for a week, that label sticks with you for years.
So, What Makes a Top Asian Takeaway?
Food quality is obvious, sure, but it’s not the only thing judges (and customers) notice.
- Consistency – That butter chicken needs to taste just as good on a rainy Tuesday as it does on a Saturday rush.
- Service – Whether it’s your front-of-house team or your delivery driver, a smile and a thank-you go a long way.
- A touch of personality – Maybe it’s a signature spice mix, a quirky dish name, or your habit of throwing in free papadoms. Little touches make you memorable.
- Community spirit – Many winners are the places that sponsor a local football team or help out at charity events.
In short: don’t just feed people. Give them a reason to remember you.
Getting Yourself Ready for the Asian Restaurant ARTA Awards
If you’re serious about aiming for an award, here’s what you need to be doing now:
First, look after your regulars. They’re the ones who’ll nominate you when voting opens. Make sure every meal they get is one they’d rave about.
Second, don’t go quiet online. Post your specials, show behind-the-scenes moments, reply to comments, and make people feel part of your world.
Third, tighten up your service. Even if the judges order anonymously, you want them to get the same warm welcome as anyone else.
It’s not about putting on a show for a month; it’s about running your business at that level all year round. That way, when the spotlight does land on you, you’re ready.
Why ARTA Lifts the Whole Industry
Yes, winning an award is great for your business, but it also raises the bar for everyone. Customers start expecting better food, cleaner packaging, faster delivery. And that’s not a bad thing, it keeps the whole industry sharp.
If you’re already committed to great food and service, you’re ahead of the game.
FAQs: Asian Restaurant & Takeaway Awards
- How do I get nominated for the ARTA takeaway awards?
Most nominations come from happy customers. You can give them a little nudge by promoting it on your socials, adding a line on receipts, or even a small sign by the till. - Do I need to pay to enter?
Nope, nominations are usually free. Just check ARTA’s official rules for the latest details. - What happens after I’m shortlisted?
You’ll likely get a mystery diner visit, and your food, service, and overall vibe will be assessed before the big night. - Can a small independent takeaway really win?
Yes. In fact, some of the most recent winners were tiny kitchens with huge passion.
5. What should I do if I win?
Shout about it. Update your menu, website, social channels, even your packaging. People love to order from a winner.
