Top 10 curry houses in Britain

1. The Brilliant

Southall, London

This West London restaurant really lives up to its name. The family-run restaurant even has Royal approval – Princess Diana has dined here, as have Prince Charles, numerous Prime Ministers and Bollywood film stars. The 200-seater restaurant serves great Punjabi food with a Kenyan touch, and it’s also the first restaurant in the UK to get a licence to hold civil marriages.

For more information see: The Brilliant (www.brilliantrestaurant.com/)

2. Tayyabs

Whitechapel, London

Started over 30 years ago in this historic part of London, Tayyabs is a dining experience not to be missed. Serving traditional Pakistani Punjabi food at great prices, the family-run restaurant is one of the best in London. There’s a great bustling atmosphere, making Tayyabs perfect for a celebration or family dinner.

For more information see: Tabbays (www.tayyabs.co.uk)

3. Nawaab

Bradford

If you’re really in the mood for a curry, Bradford is definitely the place to be. Nawaab is an absolute must-see on Britain’s curry trail, and one of the most talked-about restaurants in the city. The huge range of dishes caters for all tastes, but the chef’s specialities are a must for all curry lovers.

For more information see: Nawabb (www.bradford.nawaab.com/)

4. Moon Restaurant

Manchester

The first thing that comes to mind when you say the words ‘curry’ and ‘Manchester’ is the famous Curry Mile in Rusholme. But this classic curry house isn’t on the Mile, making it one of Manchester’s best-kept food secrets. The dishes are fresh, fragrant and perfectly spicy. Make sure you try the naan breads and onion bhajis – definite favourites with the regulars.

5. Sangam Restaurant

Manchester

Sitting proudly at the start of the Curry Mile in Rusholme, Sangam Restaurant serves Indian food as it should be – fresh, aromatic and spicy. Named after the Indian word for ‘meeting place’, the restaurant promises ‘Indian food for the 21st century – light, delicate and full of subtle flavours’. Don’t miss the tasty and spicy biryani.

For more information see: Sangam Restaurant (www.sangam.co.uk/)

6. Al Frash

Birmingham

Situated in Birmingham’s famous Balti Triangle, the Al Frash Balti Restaurant is one of the city’s most popular curry houses. Widely regarded as the best places to go for a hot balti, Al Frash is famous for its aubergine pakora and house specials at great value for money. The restaurant is unlicensed so bring your own alcohol if you want to drink with your meal.

For more information see: Al Frash (www.alfrash.com/)

7. Manzils

Southampton

Manzils in Bevois valley in Southampton stays open into the early hours of the morning, making it (unsurprisingly) a local favourite with students in the city. The young clientele guarantee a fun and vibrant atmosphere all night long. The staff are friendly, the food is cheap, and you’ll find the best curry in Southampton here – even at 04:00! 

8. Simla

Kimberley, near Nottingham

Slightly off the beaten track, Simla is one of the best hidden gems in the curry world. The stylish restaurant is home to great staff and excellent curry. And on Monday nights there is an ‘all you can eat’ buffet, so you can sample anything that takes your fancy.

For more information see: Simla (simla.me.uk/about.html)

9. Akash Tandoori Restaurant

Leicester

This Indian and Bangladeshi restaurant is incredibly popular with Leicester’s student population due to its special prices - £6 in the evenings and £2.95 at lunchtime. But the price doesn’t reflect the quality of the food at Akash – the food is mouth-watering. Don’t miss the lamb bhoona

10. The Dhabba

Glasgow

At the award-winning Dhabba you’ll find authentic north Indian cuisine with a trendy twist. The sleek and welcoming interiors make you feel at home right away, and the extensive menu offers plenty of delicious flavours to tempt your tastebuds. And if you don’t recognise the dishes on offer, the friendly staff are on hand to help.

For more information see: The Dhabba (www.thedhabba.com/)