A RESTAURANT has once again been named the best in the North at a national ceremony.

Lala’s, which is on the border of Bradford and Leeds, collected the Restaurant of the Year - North of England award at the 2023 Asian Restaurant Awards in Manchester on Monday (July 31). 

The restaurant joined the likes of My Lahore (Best Asian Fusion Restaurant) and Akbar's (Restaurant Of The Year - Yorkshire) in getting gongs on the night.

Lala's owner Junior Rashid spoke of his delight at retaining the award and thanked his loyal customers.

"It is a great achievement for our Leeds-Bradford branch," he said.

"The restaurant has really gone from strength to strength since opening in 2020. We have managed to gain a fantastic following.

"We really appreciate our customers and thank them dearly for their support.

"Teamwork makes the dream work. All our staff have worked tirelessly over this past year. They work very hard to provide our excellent service.

"It has been amazing what we have been able to do in such a short time. To conquer a market where so many big restaurants have stood for so long."

In 2020, Mr Rashid opened his third branch of Lala’s in the Bradford Road building in Pudsey, which was previously The Farmers pub, then Family Fayre and Lahori.

Since then, the restaurant has earned rave reviews and won several awards in the process.

Last month, Lala's captured the Platinum Game Changer prize at the fourth annual Bradford Curry Awards.

The accolade recognised those that have revolutionised the curry experience for their customers through innovative concepts.

"It has proven to be a popular site," Mr Rashid added when discussing the secret to the restaurant's success.

"It really helps being in the middle of two major cities. You get the best of both worlds.

"We have had people come from all over the country - North Glasgow all the way to Peterborough. 

"We have a great amount of car parking space and the building is so luxurious.

"We want to keep rejuvenating and not become complacent.

"People know their food in Bradford. Customers are spoilt for choice. Our service goes above and beyond.

"Lala's is not just a curry house, it is about being a real destination spot for customers so they can make a night of the experience."

Mr Rashid also teased plans to extend the restaurant.