'I'm proud to represent the city': Leeds chef crowned winner at national curry awards
He’s scooped the top accolade
A Leeds chef has been named the region’s Chef of the Year at one of the curry industry’s biggest awards ceremonies.
Ravi Khatri, who works at Fusion Spice in Leeds, picked up the honour at the 19th annual Bangladesh Caterers Association (BCA) Awards on Sunday, November 1.
He said: “I’m absolutely delighted to have won this award. It means a great deal to be recognised alongside so many talented chefs, and I’m grateful to my team, colleagues and everyone who has supported me.
“I’m proud to represent Leeds and bring this award home.”
The awards were presented at a sold-out gala dinner at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge hotel in London, attended by around 1,000 guests from across the British Bangladeshi catering and hospitality industry.
Meanwhile, Starbeck Tandoori, in Harrogate, was named the region’s Restaurant of the Year.
The ceremony was hosted by talkTV broadcaster Ian Collins and journalist and news presenter Anila Dhami.
Messages of support from King Charles III and Prime Minister Andy Burnham featured in the event’s official magazine.
The King’s message, sent from Buckingham Palace, praised the awards and wished the event well, while the Prime Minister congratulated the winners and recognised the contribution Bangladeshi hospitality businesses make to communities and the UK economy.
Three special BCA Honours Awards were also presented during the evening.
Kevin Bonavia MP, Brick Lane entrepreneur Abdul Jabbar and human rights activist Dr Nazia Khanum OBE were recognised for their contributions to public service, business and the community.
BCA president Oli Khan MBE said the awards were about celebrating the people and businesses behind the industry.
He said: “The Awards are about recognising excellence, but also about celebrating the people, businesses and shared heritage that make our industry so special.
“Congratulations to all our winners, whose achievements demonstrate the talent, commitment and resilience that continue to drive the sector forward.”
The Bangladesh Caterers Association was established in 1960 and represents 12,000 restaurateurs across the UK.