'There's naan better!' - South Tyneside restaurant up for 2026 'curry Oscar'
‘We’ll be going to London on 12 October feeling proud to represent South Shields.”
A South Tyneside restaurant has been shortlisted for a prestigious industry award.
Zeera Indian Cuisine in South Shields is one of only four nominees contesting the title of Regional Restaurant of the Year – North-East at the Asian Restaurant & Takeaway Awards (ARTA) 2026. Competition comes from Middlesbrough, Cramlington and Newcastle.
The winner will be announced at a black-tie evening at the Hilton Hotel on London’s Park Lane on October 12.
The “Oscars of the curry industry” celebrates the achievements of outstanding UK Asian restaurants, takeaways, chefs and hospitality businesses.
Over 1,250 restaurants and takeaways were forwarded by diners and food enthusiasts, making a nomination a significant achievement in itself.
The ceremony will be hosted by BBC journalist and broadcaster Samantha Simmonds, alongside Chase star and comedian Paul Sinha.
Nominations are supported by ChefOnline, which has a million-strong nationwide customer base. It considers customer feedback, verified customer reviews, Google and Tripadvisor reviews and food hygiene ratings.
Zeera was awarded a Good Food Award Blue Ribbon in 2025 and named Best Indian Restaurant in South Tyneside in 2024.
The Ocean Road restaurant opened in 2007 and is owned by Shah Choudhury while his brothers, Kohinoor and Abdur, are chefs there.
Shah said: “Honestly, I feel incredibly proud and very humbled. To be recognised as a finalist at the ARTA Awards means a lot to me and the whole team at Zeera.
“We’ve been part of South Shields since 2007 and we’ve always tried to put our heart into what we do, from the food and service to the little details that make people want to come back. To see that recognised on a national stage is a very special feeling.
“Most of all, I’m proud because this isn’t just about me. It’s about the whole Zeera team, our loyal customers and everyone in South Shields who has supported us over the years.
“We’re very grateful, and we’ll be going to London on 12 October feeling proud to represent South Shields.”
Mohammed Munim, CEO of ARTA, said: “Reaching this stage is a remarkable achievement and reflects the passion, resilience and dedication of the businesses shaping Asian hospitality across the UK.
“We look forward to celebrating the achievements of all our finalists at the grand finale in October.”
*Zeera Indian Cuisine now offers Sunday lunches, noon-4pm.