A Pakistani restaurant which has only been open since summer 2021 has won a major award.

Ayaan’s in Bolton has won the Pakistani Restaurant of the Year at the 1st Nation’s Curry Awards 2023.

The restaurant is known for its traditional Pakistani dishes including a ‘tawa’ menu which features a platter of seekh kebab and lamb chops served with karahi chicken, lamb and tarka daal, and a side of chips, naan and pilau rice.

Ayaan’s also has a range of mocktails and traditional ‘mango lassi’ – a blend of mango, yoghurt and milk.

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The awards ceremony took place at the Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel, with over 150 guests in attendance.

A Spokesperson for The 1st Nation’s Curry Awards 2023 said: “It has been an unforgettable night, filled with incredible food, vibrant energy, and passionate conversations.

“We have celebrated the finest in the UK’s curry scene, recognising the creativity, innovation, and exceptional service that have become synonymous with this beloved cuisine.

“The UK’s curry industry is a vital part of our culture, and these awards recognised the exceptional talents of the individuals and businesses that make it so special.

“Congratulations to all the winners and nominees and thank you to everyone who participated and supported this event.”

Co-founders Mohammed Jabir and Habib Ur Rehman created 15 jobs when the restaurant opened.

They previously told The Bolton News: “Having worked in hospitality venues across the North West since I was 19 years old, I saw that there was a real opportunity to bring something new to Bolton and the surrounding areas in the form of authentic Pakistani and Indian cooking.

“There’s nothing quite like this locally and having grown up in Bradford and experiencing this style of cuisine all my life, I know it’s an incredible way of traditional cooking that I believe deserves more recognition.”

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The co-founders wanted to bring the real taste of Pakistani and Middle Eastern cuisine together to create an array of dishes infused with spices.

Since opening, the restaurant receives glowing reviews on Google and TripAdvisor.

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One said: “Hidden gem hidden behind the Asda, the food was amazing and well worth the price. We had the aubergine pakora, palak paneer, lamb biriyani and cheese naan.”

Another said: “My favourite curry restaurant in Bolton by far. Overtook Sai spice in the valley for number one spot in Bolton by miles.

“Lamb chops starter and Lahori Lamb Chop or Meat Tawa are a must and to die for.”