There was a real buzz in the room when Troia’s name was called at this year’s Asian Restaurant and Takeaway Awards (ARTA). You could see it coming, that proud grin from the team, the claps getting louder, the mix of relief and joy that only comes after years of hard graft.
Troia, the cosy Turkish spot, took home the Turkish Restaurant of the Year title, and honestly, it couldn’t have gone to a better place. If you’ve eaten there, you’ll know what we mean: proper flavours, warm service, and that homely energy that makes you want to stay longer than planned.
About ARTA
If you’ve been following the restaurant awards UK scene, you’ll know ARTA has turned into the big one to watch. It’s not just another dinner and trophy night, it’s where real food heroes get noticed. From award-winning curry restaurants to the best Turkish restaurants in the UK, ARTA shines a light on the people behind the food, the long hours, the recipes passed down, and the local favourites that quietly build a loyal crowd.
The way ARTA picks its winners says a lot about what matters in the food world right now. It starts with customer nominations, actual diners, not just critics. Then the judges get involved, looking at everything from food and service to how a restaurant fits into its community. You can’t fake that stuff. It shows through.
Alongside other top names such as the British Curry Awards and the Asian Curry Awards, ARTA has carved out its own space as one of the country’s prestigious food awards, and the 2025 event at the London Hilton, Park Lane, proved it again. Hosted by Samantha Simmonds and Paul Martin, with live entertainment, laughter, and more than a few proud tears, it was a night that really celebrated the heart of Britain’s food scene.
A Proud Win – Turkish Restaurant of the Year for Troia
When you think of the best Turkish restaurant in Southbank, Troia’s probably already crossed your mind. It’s been quietly building its name for years, steady, reliable, and packed most nights with locals, tourists, and office groups who keep coming back.
The judges at ARTA praised Troia for being consistent, for never losing touch with what makes Turkish food special. Their Adana kebab hits with that deep, smoky flavour you only get from real charcoal grilling. The meze is vibrant and fresh. And then there’s that lamb moussaka, layered, rich, and pure comfort.
But what really stands out is the atmosphere. It’s not flashy, not forced. You walk in, and it feels welcoming. The staff smile because they mean it, not because someone told them to. You sit down, order, and before you know it, your table’s full of plates that make you slow down and actually enjoy your meal. That’s rare these days.
The Journey Behind the Flavours
Troia’s story starts small, a family dream, a handful of recipes, and a love for sharing food the Turkish way. They’ve been around Southbank for a while now, tucked between the rush of the city and the calm of the river. Over time, they’ve built something that feels familiar yet still special.
The head chef’s mindset? Keep it honest. He’s not out here chasing trends or fancy plating tricks. He cooks with a sense of respect for the ingredients, for the culture, for the people who come in hungry after work or a day out by the river. That’s what ARTA looks for when we talk about culinary excellence, not just skill, but heart.
Winning the ARTA Turkish Food Award is no small feat. It’s about balancing flavour, presentation, and consistency, but also about representing something bigger. It’s proof that authentic Turkish dining can stand shoulder to shoulder with the Curry Champion Awards, Asian cuisine awards, and all the other titles in the national curry awards circuit.
Signature Dishes and Guest Favourites
Let’s talk food, because that’s what it always comes back to. The Adana kebab is the star for a reason. Charred just right, juicy in the middle, full of spice and smokiness that makes you go quiet for a bit after the first bite. The Chicken kebab is another top pick, clean, flavourful, and pairs beautifully with their garlic yoghurt. And then there’s that Lamb Moussaka, the kind of dish that makes you forget your phone for a while.
You can tell they put love into it, no shortcuts, no microwave nonsense. Just good ingredients, cooked the right way. If you’re ever in Southbank and searching “best takeaway near me,” you’ll probably end up seeing Troia’s name pop up, and it’ll be worth it.
The Region’s Culinary Pride and Community Impact
What people sometimes forget is how much local restaurants like Troia give back. They employ local staff, support nearby suppliers, and host community events. It’s the kind of place that brings people together, families, friends, tourists, all gathered around a table sharing plates and stories.
That’s a big part of why Troia stood out to us. They’re not just running a restaurant; they’re part of Southbank’s fabric. And that’s what we love to see in the ARTA community, genuine people doing genuine work and lifting up those around them.
Media Recognition and Third-Party Validation
Since the win, Troia’s been getting a lot of attention. Local press, foodie blogs, and national outlets have picked up the story, and for good reason. Being part of the ARTA 2025 winners list is a major recognition, putting them up there with some of the top Indian restaurants UK and best takeaway awards finalists. You can see them featured in the MSN piece here: WINNERS OF ASIAN RESTAURANT AND TAKEAWAY AWARDS 2025 ANNOUNCED..
ARTA’s Role in Championing Asian Cuisine in the UK
At the end of the day, ARTA’s about more than trophies. It’s about recognising all the different cuisines that make up the UK’s food culture. From Indian to Turkish, Bangladeshi to Nepalese, these are the flavours that tell stories of migration, family, and tradition.
By celebrating places like Troia, ARTA is showing that food isn’t just about what’s on the plate. It’s about connection, the mix of cultures, the shared love of good cooking, the late nights, the early mornings, and the people who pour everything they have into it.
Troia’s Turkish Restaurant of the Year 2025 win is a proud moment for them and for all of us who care about food that feels real.
FAQ
- What is ARTA?
ARTA stands for Asian Restaurant and Takeaway Awards, one of the UK’s biggest food award events that recognises the best in Asian and Middle Eastern dining. - How does ARTA choose winners?
It starts with customer nominations and ends with expert judges tasting, testing, and checking every detail that makes a restaurant stand out. - Why did Troia win?
Because they’ve nailed authentic Turkish cooking with a warm, welcoming experience that keeps people coming back. - Where is Troia located?
Right by London’s Southbank, perfect for a post-riverwalk meal or dinner with friends.
