A chef at an Indian restaurant in a Suffolk town has been awarded a prestigious accolade following a cook-off competition. 

Abu Syed, who works at Jilani restaurant in Sudbury's North Street, was crowned East Anglia Chef of the Year at the Asian Restaurant and Takeaway Awards (ARTA) 2024.

His achievement followed an intense cook-off that took place at Cambridge Regional College on September 16 where chefs battled it out to show off their culinary skills against top talent. 

Chef Abu SyedChef Abu Syed (Image: Submitted via Jilani) This came after a rigorous competition process involving customer nominations from around the UK, with more than 900,000 customers taking part. 

Mr Syed was presented with the award at a ceremony on Sunday at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London. 

Speaking at the awards event which he attended with his mother, Nasir Jilani, owner of the restaurant, said: "This incredible achievement is a testament to chef Abu Syed's dedication and talent.

"I'm particularly grateful to have my mother by my side tonight. Her unwavering support and the strong work ethic she instilled in me have been instrumental in our success. Without her dedication, none of this would have been possible."

Nasir JilaniNasir Jilani (Image: Submitted via Jilani)  

Mohammed Munim, founder member and chief executive of ARTA, said: "Asian restaurants have made a significant contribution to the UK economy. They deserve recognition for their efforts.

"Each nominee is a worthy winner, and we are proud to celebrate their achievements, especially those who preserve family traditions and authentic flavours."

Jilani opened in Sudbury's North Street in February 2023, replacing the former India Restaurant.

Mr Jilani, who is also a firefighter, also runs The Chequers Indian Lounge in Great Blakenham, which opened in September 2022.

Jilani restaurant is inviting patrons to come along and experience Mr Syed's award-winning cuisine and join them in celebrating the achievement.