A "truly special" chef who puts his "heart into every dish" has been crowned Chef of the Year.
Syed Nur Hussain, known to customers as Chef Nur, received the honour at the National Curry Awards 2026 after years spent building a reputation for creating innovative dishes at Spice Lounge Durham.
The restaurant shared the news on social media, thanking customers for their votes, support and loyalty, and describing the award as a recognition of the chef's hard work and dedication.
Chef Nur said he felt "very honoured and proud" when he learned he had won the national title.
The award holds particular significance for the chef, recognising the passion and commitment he has brought to his profession throughout his career.
Spice Lounge Durham co-owner Akki and Chef Nur Hussain celebrate after the chef was named Chef of the Year at the National Curry Awards 2026. (Image: Spice Lounge Durham)
According to business partner and co-owner Akki, Chef Nur's success is the result of a rare combination of talent, consistency and dedication.
He said: "I've had the privilege of working with many chefs throughout my life, but Chef Nur has something truly special about him.
"He has a certain magic in his cooking that sets him apart from the rest.
"What impresses me most is his consistency, passion and dedication to what he does.
"He puts his heart into every dish, and that's what makes his cooking stand out and keeps our customers coming back for more."
Chef Nur's culinary journey began in Bangladesh, where he developed a love of cooking while learning from his grandmother in the city of Syedpur.
He moved to the UK in 1998, worked his way through the Indian restaurant industry and joined Spice Lounge Durham about 20 years ago.
Over the years he has become known for blending traditional flavours with his own creative ideas, producing dishes such as Chicken Tikka Molee, Lamb Lanka Piaza Sag and Dall.
Akki believes the restaurant's loyal customer base played an important role in helping Chef Nur secure the award.
He said: "Our customers recognise and appreciate his special talent, consistency and dedication, and their continued support has encouraged him to keep striving for excellence.
"Their positive feedback and loyalty have helped showcase the quality of his cooking and contributed to this well-deserved achievement."
The recognition is also expected to provide a boost for the restaurant, which has been serving customers in Durham for 22 years.
Akki added: "This recognition means a great deal to our business.
"It highlights the talent, passion and consistency that go into the food we serve and reflects the hard work of our entire team.
"Having a chef recognised at this level brings great pride to our restaurant, strengthens our reputation and helps us build even greater trust with our customers."
Thanking those who have supported the restaurant over the years, Chef Nur said: "A heartfelt thank you to all our wonderful customers for your love, loyalty and support over the last 22 years.
"You are the reason we are here today."