An Indian restaurant in Reading has just missed out on top spot after being named a finalist at the glittering National Curry Awards.

Zyka made it to the final four of the ‘Best in the South East’ category but were pipped to the post at the awards on Monday (November 29) by Chez Mumtaz in St Albans.

The Park Lane restaurant is no stranger to awards, having been shortlisted for best newcomer in 2019 and being voted one of the 22 Best Curry Restaurants at the Curry Life Awards in October.

“It's a monumental achievement for us, and to be up against and amongst Michelin star establishments and restaurants backed and led by Celebrity Chef's was awe inspiring to say the least,” said owner Zak Khan.

“The British Curry Awards itself is regarded as the Oscars of the industry, and is by far the most prestigious accolade any Curry Restaurant could be awarded.”

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“For us to have made it as Finalists is not only an amazing achievement for us, but a fantastic advert for Reading and the surrounding areas, having been the only establishment in the town to have made it this far in the last five years.

“It goes without saying the difficulties the industry has faced over the last 18 months and so to be recognised by the British Curry Awards is amazing to say the least.”

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The Prime Minister spoke at the British Curry Awards, which was attended by Love Island contestant Priya Gopaldas, The Apprentice winner Sian Gabbidon, RuPaul’s Drag Race UK’s Baga Chipz and hosted by actor and comedian, Omid Djalili.

The finest curry restaurateurs from across the UK descended on Battersea Evolution, London, for the 17th year in the hope of being recognised as the best restaurant in their region.

David Cameron famously dubbed the event the 'Curry Oscars'.