A curry house in Chichester has reached the finals of the Asian Restaurant and Takeaway Awards known as the ‘Oscars of the Curry Industry’.

Thyme & Chillies in Birdham Road, named as a finalist in the category of Regional Restaurant of the Year (Sussex), is among more than 1,250 restaurants and takeaways across the UK nominated by diners and food enthusiasts.

The awards (ARTA 2026) will welcome the finest Asian restaurants and takeaways from across the UK who will come together at a prestigious ceremony in the hope of being recognised and honoured with’ a jewel in the crown’ of the UK Asian restaurant industry award sector.

The ceremony will be hosted by BBC journalist and broadcaster, Samantha Simmonds, and comedian, Paul Sinha.

Mohammed Munim, founder and chief executive of ARTA, said: “Congratulations to every restaurant and takeaway named as a finalist of ARTA 2026. Being a finalist is a remarkable achievement and reflects the passion, resilience and dedication of the businesses shaping Asian hospitality across the UK.

“At a time when rising employment costs, inflation and increasing overheads continue to challenge independent hospitality, Asian restaurants and takeaways remain vital to communities and the wider UK hospitality industry.

"We look forward to celebrating the winners and their achievements in the hospitality industry on Monday, October 12 at the London Hilton on Park Lane.”