Sunderland Restaurants Shine at 2025 Asian Curry Awards

Sunderland celebrated a remarkable achievement at the 2025 Asian Curry Awards, often referred to as the “Curry Oscars,” with two local restaurants securing prestigious national titles. Babaji, known for its authentic Indian cuisine, won the award for Casual Dining Restaurant of the Year, while My Delhi earned the North East regional title for Best South Asian Restaurant of the Year.

Babaji, which opened in early 2023, has quickly made a name for itself. Manager Sohel Khan expressed his excitement during a video shared from the awards ceremony held at Grosvenor House in London. “Yes, we did it! Best casual dining restaurant of the year – in the country!” he exclaimed. The restaurant’s name, which means “dear father,” reflects its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to quality dining.

The success of Babaji can be attributed to the dedication of its team and support from the local community. In a heartfelt message posted on Facebook, the restaurant emphasized that the award “belongs to all of us,” thanking customers for their loyalty and encouragement. “Every visit, every kind word, every recommendation helped bring Babaji to the national spotlight,” the message read.

My Delhi also celebrated its victory with enthusiasm. In a post on social media, the restaurant expressed gratitude towards its patrons, saying, “Moments like this feel surreal – a reminder of the heart, the graft, and the sheer love our team pours into every service.” Their success added to the celebratory atmosphere surrounding Sunderland’s food scene.

The Asian Curry Awards featured a total of 46 categories, recognizing excellence across various Asian and Oriental cuisines. Notably, Chakh Dhoom in Newcastle was awarded the national title for Street Food Restaurant of the Year. The event attracted around 1,200 guests, including notable figures in the culinary world.

Yawar Khan, chairman of the Asian Catering Federation, praised the winners for their passion and culinary talent. He noted that their success reflects the resilience of the hospitality sector, which continues to play a significant role in the UK economy, contributing billions annually. “Congratulations to all winners and huge thanks to everyone who invests in our industry,” he stated.

The Asian Curry Awards serve not only to celebrate individual successes but also to highlight the contributions of Asian restaurants to the wider culinary landscape. The event’s host, Samantha Simmonds, a BBC news anchor, and Anisa Khan, owner of Bombay Pizza and a finalist on this year’s TV series of The Apprentice, presented the awards.

As Sunderland revels in its culinary achievements, the local community is reminded of the importance of supporting local businesses. The recognition received by Babaji and My Delhi underscores the vibrant food culture in the region and the dedication of those behind these establishments.

For more information on the event and its winners, visit the Asian Catering Federation’s website.