“The Oscars of curry” has featured a long-standing Abbots Langley eatery in the finals for its awards.
Abbots Tandoori, in High Street, will find out if it has won the title of regional restaurant of the year for Hertfordshire in the 2024 Asian Restaurant and Takeaway Awards (ARTA) final on October 6.
The popular business, established in 1988, has known it was in the running since February but has now been revealed as one of the top 10 in Hertfordshire - meaning it will go to the final phase when judges taste its dishes and choose an overall winner.
Owner Emon Chowdhury described the shortlisting as “great news” and added that the restaurant has big expectations.
“We are hoping for the best,” he said, adding that it was “thrilling” to be in contention. “If we do win the curry Oscar award, we hope it will take us to the next level and we hope new customers try us.”
Abbots Tandoori is currently rated as the number one restaurant in Abbots Langley and the number one Indian restaurant in Hertfordshire on Tripadvisor, which ARTA says it takes into account.
- Abbots Tandoori rated 5/5 after previous failed inspection
- Abbots Tandoori in Langley road holds dinner for Breast Cancer Care
- Abbots Langley and Watford eateries nominated for ARTA award
It has built a loyal following in the area, with some of the team including head chef Kalam working together for more than 26 years.
Mr Chowdhury added: “We value every single customer, every member of the team, people in the backstage…hopefully we win and get this award.”
The final will be held at London’s Royal Lancaster and will be presented by BBC broadcaster Samantha Simmonds and magician Paul Martin.
ARTA CEO Mohammed Munim said: “Asian restaurants and takeaways have made a significant contribution to the UK economy, both historically and in recent times.
“They deserve recognition and rewards for their efforts.
“These restaurants and takeaways have not only created thousands of jobs but have also boosted local economies through their presence, especially post Brexit.”
Abbots Tandoori is also hoping to pick up a Good Food Award for 2024/2025 after being confirmed as being in the running in July.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel