(Image: Provided)
A North East venue has been crowned Streetfood Restaurant of the Year.
Babaji, based in Sunderland, took home the title of Streetfood Restaurant of the Year at the Asian Restaurant and Takeaway Awards (ARTA) 2026, held in London.
The awards, which celebrate excellence across the UK’s Asian restaurant and takeaway sector, took place on October 12, at the London Hilton on Park Lane.
The ceremony was hosted by TV news anchor Samantha Simmonds and comedian Paul Sinha.
A statement from the Babaji team said: "We're over the moon. What an incredible honour for our team and a proud moment for everyone who has been part of our journey.
"From preparing every dish with passion to welcoming our wonderful customers, everything we do comes from our love for great food and bringing people together.
"And we couldn't have achieved this without you!"
The team added: "To our loyal customers, dedicated team and everyone who has supported Babaji along the way, thank you for making this possible.
"Every visit, every order and every kind word has helped us reach this milestone.
"We're delighted to bring this national recognition home to Sunderland, and we look forward to sharing many more memorable food experiences with you!"
The ARTA awards highlight the strength and diversity of the Asian dining scene in the UK, with more than 1,250 businesses nominated.
Other winners included My Delhi Newcastle, which was named Champion of Champions.
Mohammed Munim, founder and CEO of ARTA, said: "Heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and finalists of ARTA 2026.
"Their dedication, creativity and commitment to excellence continue to raise standards across the UK’s Asian restaurant and takeaway sector.
"This industry represents far more than food.
"It is an integral part of multicultural Britain, supporting communities, creating employment and bringing extraordinary culinary experiences to diners across the country.
"We gather at an important time for hospitality."
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He added: "Despite continued customer demand, restaurants across the UK face significant pressures from rising employment costs, food prices, energy bills and other operating costs.
"Yet independent businesses continue to invest in quality, their teams and the customer experience.
"That resilience, creativity and determination deserve to be recognised and celebrated."