Samrat Indian restaurant in Seaham wins national curry award

Samrat, in Seaham, took home two gongs at the inaugural British Curry Championship 2025 last week.

The Indian, which opened its doors in 2021 just after the pandemic won the “Curry Leader of the Year – Outstanding Achievement” and “Voter’s Choice Curry Champion of the Year” titles at the event on June 30.

Staff at Samrat picking up one of the awards (Image: SAMRAT) The British Curry Championship brought together the country’s top 300 curry houses, celebrating the creativity and dedication of restaurateurs nationwide.

Samrat in Seaham (Image: SAMRAT) Samrat’s journey began in the aftermath of Covid, vowing to offer authentic Indian food and a memorable dining experience.

Since then, the restaurant has quickly developed a loyal customer base.

Some of the food on offer at Samrat (Image: SAMRAT) Speaking of the awards, a spokesperson said: “We asked to be entered to see how we compete with the best. Anonymous tasters were sent to try our food and service, and following this, the public voted. We’re humbled by the support and recognition.”

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Samrat wasn’t the North East restaurant praised on the night.

Soho Tavern in Gateshead was named “North East Curry Champion of the Year”, while My Delhi in Newcastle took home “Outstanding Achievement” in the same category. Dhamaka in Cramlington was recognised for excellence.

Jaipur in Newcastle was named “Curry Leader of the Year”, with Samrat once again mentioned for Outstanding Achievement, and Morpeth Tandoori also praised.