A family-run Indian restaurant in Wellesbourne has been named the Best Indian Restaurant in the UK at the Nation's Curry Awards 2026, surprising many who expected the accolade to go to a venue in a larger city.
In a surprising turn of events, the title of Best Indian Restaurant in the UK has been awarded to Kolshi Premier Indian Restaurant, located in the quaint village of Wellesbourne, south of Warwickshire. The restaurant, which recently received the accolade at the Oceanic Awards Nation's Curry Awards 2026 held in Huddersfield, challenges the common assumption that such honors typically go to establishments in bigger cities with vibrant South Asian communities, such as Birmingham or Manchester.
Wellesbourne, known more for its open-air market than for culinary fame, is not what many would expect when thinking of award-winning curry houses. The recognition emphasizes the potential of smaller, community-based restaurants to achieve national acclaim while highlighting the diverse culinary landscape across the UK. Kolshi Premier Indian’s family-run model offers a personal touch that resonates with diners, illustrating the power of local establishments to surprise and delight.
The article notes that the award calls into question the criteria and expectations of distinguished culinary accolades. It suggests a broader debate about how restaurants are recognized and the significance of locality in the culinary scene. This recognition for a small village restaurant invites food enthusiasts to explore beyond traditional gastronomic hotspots and appreciate hidden gems that define regional dining experiences in the UK.
