Organised by the Asian Catering Federation, the awards will see representatives from the best Asian restaurants around the country gather for an awards ceremony in Manchester on September 15.
More than 100 restaurants and takeaways have been nominated this year by the awards’ judging panel and by popular vote.
The shortlist includes the very best of Bangladeshi, Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Nepalese, Pan-Asian, Indonesian, Thai, Vietnamese and Middle-Eastern cuisine.
Chair of the Asian Catering Federation Yawar Khan said: “The Asian Restaurant Awards in Manchester are a key event for our industry. Not only do they recognise the excellence of Asian and Oriental restaurants internationally, but they also celebrate the significant contribution our industry makes to the economy and the hardworking people in our food industry.
“The Asian food industry continues to thrive in 2025, despite the many challenges currently faced by the hospitality sector, in particular the new immigration rules in the UK, and the fees charged by online platforms.
“However, our industry remains resilient, passionate and committed to offering the very best Asian cuisine we can, and these awards recognise this.”
Here’s a rundown of the North East restaurants that have made the shortlist:
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5. Babaji, Mary Street, Sunderland
They're regular winners of awards and Babaji are hoping for similar success at this ceremony. | Sunderland Echo
6. Akbar's, Newcastle
Akbar's is another North East favourite to make the grade. | Google
7. Raval Indian Brasserie & Bar
Gateshead landmark Raval is also in the running for an award. | Google Maps
8. Spice Lounge, Durham
The only Durham restaurant to make the North East shortlist is Spice Lounge. | Stock image