Three Lancashire restaurants and takeaways have been shortlisted for regional awards at the Asian Restaurant and Takeaway Awards (ARTA) 2024.

The awards say they are the most prestigious celebration of Pan Asian cuisine in the UK and winners will be announced on Sunday, October 6 at a ceremony in London.

ARTA rewards excellence, craft, creativity and great taste by bringing the UK’s most prestigious Asian restaurants and chefs together under one roof.

Nominees were chosen based on nominations by customers from across the UK, including more than 900,000 customers of ARTA’s strategic partner ChefOnline, Social Media and Food Hygiene Ratings, followed by a final judgement of an esteemed judging panel to crown each region’s Asian excellence.

3 Lancashire restaurants shortlisted for ARTA 2024

The ARTA 2024 shortlisted Top 10 Restaurants and Takeaways in the regional category awards have been revealed with three in East Lancashire being shortlisted.

Freya’s Grill in Darwen is shortlisted for the Regional Restaurant of the Year – North West award while Megna in Great Harwood, and Suruchi Takeaway in Burnley are shortlisted for the Regional Takeaway of the Year - North West award.

You can find out more about the ARTAs via the website here.

Mohammed Munim, founder member and CEO of ARTA, said: “Asian restaurants and takeaways have made a significant contribution to the UK economy, both historically and in recent times.

“They deserve recognition and rewards for their efforts. These restaurants & takeaways have not only created thousands of jobs but have also boosted local economies through their presence, especially post Brexit.

“To provide staunch support to the thriving Asian restaurants in Britain, ARTA acknowledges and highlights their importance in the culinary landscape. Each nominee is a worthy winner and we look forward to celebrating with them all at the award ceremony on 6th October.”

Freya’s Grill has received praise on Tripadvisor from visitors, earning it a 5-star rating from 26 reviews.

Praising the food and service, one customer said: “Brilliant meal, very fresh and tasty and great service from staff. Very organised, we didn't book but got a table fine for our first visit. We will be back”.

One customer added: “Amazing all round. Can’t fault it at all. Food was delicious, staff were friendly. Definitely returning soon to try more food.”

Thirteen reviews have been left for Suruchi Takeaway on Google Reviews with the takeaway earning 4.4 stars.

One customer said: “Absolutely amazing food, brilliant blend of spice and flavour! Would 100% recommend to anyone and everyone.

“Very kind gentleman who served me also offered a discount.

“Will be supporting without doubt going forward.”

Another commented: “We use these guys probably once a week. They have become our fave. Food is always consistent and always delicious. The service is amazing so five stars all the way. Keep it up.”

Recommended reading:

Megna has also been well-received with a 4.1-star rating on Google Reviews from 61 reviews.

One visitor was impressed with the takeaway: “Absolutely the best curry house around. Great customer service, excellent quality food. And the delivery driver was friendly and very well mannered.”

One urged others to order food from the takeaway, saying: “The best curry ever. Lamb karahi. I’ve eaten about 5,000 curries in my time ( I’m 54) try it - top top top. Thank you”.