Babul’s Barnard Castle and Darlington branches have been officially recognised in the esteemed 2025 British Curry Guide, a testament to excellence in the British curry industry.
The British Curry Guide celebrates the very best restaurants and takeaways nationwide, highlighting those that demonstrate outstanding quality, service, and innovation. Inclusion in the guide is one of the industry’s highest accolades, further reinforcing Babul’s reputation as a leader in British curry culture—following its recent appearance on Channel 4’s ‘Come Dine with Me: The Professionals’.
Comment by Babul’s
Shuhel Ahmed, the owner of Babul’s said:
“This recognition is an incredible achievement that highlights the quality of food and drink at both of our branches. Babul’s is named after our father, who sadly passed away in 2023. He trained us, inspired us, and helped revolutionise South Asian cuisine in the Northeast. Without him, none of this would be possible, so we dedicate this honour to his legacy. Our goal remains the same: to provide an exceptional dining experience for our loyal customers while introducing new guests to the Babul’s experience.”
Babuls representative, Zak Ahmed was quoted as saying:
“This is the cherry on top of what has been an outstanding year for Babul’s. In 2024, we were proud to win ARTA (Asian Restaurant and Takeaway Awards) Restaurant of the Year, as well as being named Best Curry House by The Northern Echo—an award voted for by the public. Most importantly, our father was posthumously awarded the prestigious Curry Legend Award by Curry Life Magazine. I’d like to extend my sincere thanks to our customers for their unwavering support and to our incredible team, who have worked tirelessly to make Babul’s one of the North East’s must-visit restaurants.”
The 2025 British Curry Guide showcases restaurants that honour the rich tradition of British curry while embracing modern culinary innovation. As a cornerstone of UK food culture, the guide celebrates establishments that balance authenticity with creativity, ensuring the industry’s continued growth and success.
To celebrate this achievement, Babul’s invites customers to visit either branch and experience firsthand why it has earned a place in the guide. Whether indulging in brunch (9am – 3pm), enjoying an all-day menu featuring signature curries, vegan dishes, and Undaal, or savouring coffees, cocktails, and signature Babul’s hospitality, there’s something for everyone.
For more information or to book a table, visit Babul’s own website here.
About the British Curry Guide
The British Curry Guide is an annual publication celebrating the UK’s finest curry establishments. Recognising excellence across the industry, it honours both the rich heritage of curry in Britain and the chefs and restaurateurs pushing boundaries to shape its future.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO OUR CROWDFUNDER
HELP US BECOME STRONGER SO THAT WE CAN CONTINUE TO DELIVER POWERFUL CITIZEN JOURNALISM!







