An Indian restaurant in Padiham has been nominated for the Lancashire Telegraph’s Best Curry House competition – and opening it was a childhood dream for the manager.

Les Hussain has been at the helm of Jaipur Indian Restaurant, on Burnley Road, for 15 years. He said his dream of running his own Indian restaurant began at school.

He said: “I always wanted to run my own Indian restaurant. It has always been my passion. This idea started at school when I was working part-time in an Indian restaurant and I really enjoyed it.”

Les Hussain, manager of Jaipur Indian Restaurant, Les Hussain, manager of Jaipur Indian Restaurant, (Image: Les Hussain) The recipes have been passed down through multiple generations and classic curries, such as korma and balti dishes, are some of the best sellers.

Les said the “cosy” atmosphere, great deals and quality food make Jaipur stand out from other Indian restaurants.

He said: “When we first started the business we were struggling. Padiham is a small community but now we are quite established and popular in the area.

“Customers praise the food, atmosphere and customer service we offer.

Inside Jaipur Indian RestaurantInside Jaipur Indian Restaurant (Image: Les Hussain) “Customers also appreciate the offers we have. Monday to Saturday, we offer two-for-one dishes on starters and mains and on Sunday we offer three-course meals for £11. Kids also eat free on school holidays.”

Les said winning the competition would “mean everything" to the team.

He said: “When we found out we had been nominated, I couldn’t wait to get back to the restaurant to tell everyone.

Food served at Jaipur Indian RestaurantFood served at Jaipur Indian Restaurant (Image: Les Hussain)

“To win would mean everything, as we are only a small restaurant in Padiham but we have put so much work in.

“Without customer support, we would not be in the position we are in. I want to thank everyone for customers for voting for and supporting us.”

The Best Curry Houses competition asked readers to nominate their favourite establishments for the much-loved cuisine, and you didn’t disappoint, with nominations flying in.

We have collated the votes and whittled them down to a top 10 that received the most nominations and have made the final shortlist.

Over the coming days, readers will be able to vote for their favourite restaurants by picking up a paper copy of the Lancashire Telegraph, with the winner announced next month.

Readers can vote for the ‘Best Curry House 2024’ by picking up copies of the Lancashire Telegraph between Monday, October 28 and Saturday, November 9.