We're humbled to be considered the best Indian dining destination in the UK
The team at a top Gateshead restaurant have spoken of their pride after taking the top national prize at an Indian food awards.
Raval Indian Brasserie & Bar has been named Britain’s National Champion 2025 by the British Indian Good Food Guide, the highest honour in UK Indian dining.
The site, on the southern bank of the Tyne, becomes the first restaurant from the North East to receive the Guide’s top national distinction.
The Guide’s editors praised Raval’s tasting-led menu, describing it as a reflection of “refined technique, clarity of flavour, and confident restraint” — a dining experience that feels elevated yet welcoming and unpretentious.
“We’re humbled and proud to receive this recognition,” said Nas Islam, Manager at Raval.
“To see Newcastle–Gateshead and the North East recognised this way means everything to us.Thank you to our guests, friends, community, and our hardworking team for making it possible — this is for us all.”
It is one of many awards the restaurant has won down the years. Earlier this year Raval was named as the best fine dining destination at the Asian Restaurant Awards.
Another event — attended by Lords and Ladies, leading media personalities, politicians, and hospitality leaders at the Palace of Westminster — Raval was named among the Top 100 Asian Restaurants in the United Kingdom.
Haveli in Ponteland made the list of the nation’s best 100 restaurants from the same guide. It was described as “a calm and polished experience where hospitality and cooking are equally valued. Classic dishes exhibit finesse, with careful attention to detail in sauces and textures.”