Taste of Nawab, a curry house on Colney Hatch Lane in Muswell Hill, has been named north London restaurant of the year at the Asian Restaurant and Takeaway Awards (ARTAs), marking its third industry accolade in as many months. The award was presented to chef and owner Abdul Rahman on Monday, October 12, at a ceremony held at the London Hilton in Park Lane.
Third award in three months
The ARTA win follows two other major honours. In August, the restaurant received a Good Food Award Gold Seal for 2026/27, which recognises consistent excellence and high standards. A month later, Taste of Nawab earned a Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice Award 2026, placing it among the top 10 per cent of restaurants worldwide on the review platform.
Abdul described the achievement as overwhelming, particularly as it coincides with the restaurant's 30th anniversary year. He said: "Three awards in three months – and in our 30th anniversary year. It's honestly quite overwhelming. We've been here since 1996, and the support we've received from our customers and this wonderful community has been incredible."
Community support and anniversary celebration
The three-month winning streak comes during a milestone year for the business. In August, around 100 guests—including customers, friends, and residents—attended Taste of Nawab's 30th anniversary celebration. Notable attendees included poet and children's author Michael Rosen, who is a regular at the restaurant and a fan of their dal, along with MP Catherine West.
Abdul emphasised that the awards are not just for him but for the entire team and the community. He said: "These awards are not just for me. They're for our fantastic team and for everyone who has supported Taste of Nawab over the years. I'm so proud of what we've achieved together, and I want to say a huge thank you to everybody who has been part of our journey."
Customer loyalty and ongoing offers
Over the years, Taste of Nawab has become a fixture of the Muswell Hill and Friern Barnet community, regularly supporting schools, charities, and local events. To thank customers for their loyalty, the restaurant is offering 15 per cent off until October 31. The discount applies to dine-in tables of up to four people and takeaway, collection, and delivery orders more than £30.
Despite the recent flurry of awards, Abdul said that the continued loyalty of customers remains the restaurant's greatest achievement. He said: "These awards mean the world to us. But the most important thing is that our customers keep coming through the door, enjoying our food, and feeling welcome. That's what Taste of Nawab has always been about."
