Chandni makes English Curry Awards shortlist

A Burnage curry house earns national attention after a Curry Awards shortlist nod.

Chandni earns English Curry Awards shortlist nod

Chandni Restaurants, at 4 Kingsway in Burnage, Manchester, earned a place on the English Curry Awards shortlist. The writer, who grew up nearby, notes the venue’s evolution from a bakery to a contemporary dining space since its revamp last year. The matka curry, available with chicken or lamb, is highlighted as a popular option, with a small portion priced at £6.99. Masala chips and a plain roti are added extras, and the overall aroma hints at a rich blend of spices.

Service is described as a mix of counter ordering and table seating, which can feel blurred and occasionally disrupt the atmosphere. The dish is praised for its aroma and balance of heat, with the writer noting an added depth that might come from clay pot cooking. Overall value is strong, with the meal costing about £13, leaving the writer impressed by the setting and the potential of Burnage to host national level curry venues.

The award shortlisting brings national attention to a neighborhood spot, offering a rare chance to reach new customers. It also creates pressure to maintain quality while scaling up. The use of matka cooking links traditional technique to modern branding, a common trend in the UK curry scene.

This piece shows how local history and memory intersect with economic opportunity. It highlights a broader pattern where small eateries in aging neighborhoods become cultural anchors when recognized by national bodies, a development that can redefine a district’s food map.

Highlights

Momentum in Manchester’s curry scene seems to travel from street corners to national stages.