Britain's 100 finest curry restaurants have been revealed, featuring a handful of hidden gems scattered across the nation - some boasting Michelin stars while others have only recently survived the threat of closure. From Slough to Glasgow, the Asian Catering Federation (ACF) has unveiled its definitive list of the 100 best restaurants throughout the country for 2026.
The awards celebrate "the very best Asian cuisine nationwide" and assist curry enthusiasts in discovering "outstanding curry houses in their local area". The selected establishments were chosen by public vote and endorsed by the ACF's panel of experts, with the top 100 restaurants unveiled at the Asian Catering Federation Prestige Dinner and Top 100 Award Ceremony last month. London led the way - claiming a remarkable 21 spots on the list.
Mayfair's Benares secured its place just 12 months after the closure of its original flagship location in Hanway Place. Benares was established by celebrated chef Atul Kochhar, who earned the restaurant a prized Michelin star following appearances on MasterChef and the Great British Menu.
Gymkhana holds two Michelin stars and has recently attracted A-list clientele including Miley Cyrus and Ed Sheeran.
Full list of best curry spots in the UK:
Yawar Khan, Chair of the Asian Catering Federation said: "This event is about celebrating excellence across the hospitality sector, putting the diverse Asian community on one platform, and recognising chefs, restaurants, and industry leaders who continue to set the benchmark for quality, innovation and consistency across the Asian food industry in the UK.
"Over the past year, the sector has continued to navigate rising costs, evolving consumer expectations, and ongoing economic pressures. Yet, despite all this, they remain resilient, continuously adapting, innovating, and finding new ways to connect with their customers.
"They are investing in their teams, embracing new ideas, and continuing to deliver exceptional dining experiences day in, day out. Congratulations to everyone who is included in this year's Guide, you have all earned your place through passion for our industry, and for working hard to maintain exceptional high standards - well done."
Launched in 2022, each restaurant is selected through a combination of public vote and recommendations from the Asian Catering Federation's panel of curry-loving connoisseurs. Amongst those presenting awards on the night were BBC news anchor Samantha Simmonds, Sarah Olney, Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Business and MP for Richmond Park, along with representatives from the Malaysian High Commission.
