A POPULAR Indian restaurant is celebrating after winning 'Chef of the Year' at the National Curry Awards.
Spicy Tadka, based in Westminster House, just outside of Festival Place, has picked up a National Curry Award for the second year in a row.
Chef Bhupendra Singh was named 'Chef of the Year' at the awards ceremony, which was held in the House of Lords, Westminster, London, on Monday, October 21.
Gagan Joshi, owner of the restaurant, told the Gazette that he is "very pleased" for his head chef.
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He said: "I'm very happy and excited. Chef Bhupendra has been mentor for the Spicy Tadka team for the last five years.
"Bhupendra has been the brain behind many innovative and fusion dishes served by Spicy Tadka, he thanks all customers who have supported Spicy Tadka in this time."
Bhupendra Singh has more than 30 years of experience in cooking Indian cuisine, having started his journey as a chef in Delhi, India, back in 1990.
After working in many prestigious venues, including Taj hotels for a number of years, he moved to the UK in April 2002.
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Gagan added that he is thankful "to all our loyal customers, and the hard work of our team who have helped provide consistency and good service.
"It is the second year in a row that we have won one of these awards, and it goes to show that we are doing things that our customers like, so we will continue to keep it up.
"The award is going on our wall of pride, which is part of our refurbishment that includes new decorations and hand-crafted designs."
Spicy Tadka has recently uplifted the restaurant to include vibrant and colourful cultural artwork.
The restaurant will be hosting a number of celebrations over the coming months, recognising Diwali and Christmas with special menus and a street food buffet.
Readers can taste authentic Indian dishes crafted by the award-winning chef by booking a table via info@spicytadka.co.uk or by calling 01256 636 300.
More information is available at www.spicytadka.co.uk
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