Ever wondered where to find the best Indian food in Cambridge? Two local culinary stars are shining bright, having been shortlisted among the nation’s elite at a prestigious awards ceremony! Will your favourite take home the top prize? You won’t believe the competition they’re against!
Cambridge’s vibrant culinary scene is buzzing with excitement as two of its most esteemed Indian restaurants, Royal Spice and Navadhanya, have earned coveted spots on the shortlist for the prestigious ninth Asian Restaurant Awards. This national recognition highlights the exceptional quality and innovative spirit thriving within the city’s diverse gastronomic landscape, placing these local favourites in contention for the ultimate title of the best Indian restaurant in the country.
Organised by the Asian Catering Federation, these esteemed awards are renowned for celebrating “outstanding culinary excellence and sumptuous creativity” demonstrated by successful businesses across the hospitality industry. The rigorous selection process acknowledges not only the delectable offerings but also the significant contributions these establishments make to the broader culinary community and economy.
The extensive shortlist for this year’s awards encompasses a wide array of Asian and Oriental cuisines, showcasing the very best of Bangladeshi, Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Nepalese, Pan-Asian, Indonesian, Thai, Vietnamese, and Middle-Eastern culinary traditions. With over 100 restaurants and takeaways nominated through a combination of expert judging panel assessments and popular public votes, the competition represents the pinnacle of Asian dining.
Royal Spice, a long-standing favourite in Cambridge, boasts a reputation for serving “outstanding food” and was recently ranked as the city’s number one Indian/Asian restaurant on TripAdvisor. Diners consistently praise its delicious offerings and excellent service, whether enjoying a takeaway or dining in its newly decorated restaurant, testament to its unwavering commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Further cementing Cambridge’s status as a top food destination is Navadhanya, a fine-dining Indian restaurant located on Road. This establishment has previously garnered national acclaim, being named in the British Indian Good Food Guide. Navadhanya prides itself on delivering an unparalleled dining experience, ensuring that “from preparation to the presentation, we strive to ensure your experience represents the best India has to offer.”
The anticipation builds towards the grand awards ceremony, scheduled for September 15 at The Manchester Deansgate Hotel. This high-profile event will be expertly hosted by broadcast journalist and TV News anchor Samantha Simmonds, with a special guest appearance from Anisa Khan, owner of Bombay Pizza and a recent finalist in this year’s The Apprentice, adding a touch of celebrity flair to the evening.
Yawar Khan, Chair of the Asian Catering Federation, underscored the significance of the Manchester awards, stating, “The Asian Restaurant Awards in Manchester are a key event for our industry. Not only do they recognise the excellence of Asian and Oriental restaurants internationally, but they also celebrate the significant contribution our industry makes to the economy and the hardworking people in our food industry.” He also highlighted the industry’s resilience and passion, reiterating its commitment to offering the very best Asian cuisine.