Chutney House, an Indian restaurant in Maldon High Street, was crowned the 'Best Restaurant in Essex' at the South East Business Awards last Sunday (October 30).

The restaurant has now been entered into the National Grand Final – set to be held in Birmingham – to name the best restaurant in the UK, later this month.

Nazma Begum, owner of Chutney House, told Nub News: "We're a very young business – we've just reached our 1-year anniversary."

"It blows my mind - I'm so happy!

"Our diners really understood what we're going for and the potential of what we can bring to the High Street."

Nazma and her husband, Istiaque Ahmed, opened the family-run restaurant in September 2021.

The couple plans to proudly display their award in the restaurant.

Nazma said: "We want all the diners to see it. It's another way of saying 'thank you' for all those who voted for Chutney House and supported us throughout the whole year.

"We have such great people in Essex and outside as well."

It is not known who nominated Chutney House, but Nazma and Istiaque have thanked whoever it was for the giving them the opportunity to win this award.

Nazma added: "They obviously thought we had something to offer.

Some of the dishes on offer at the award-winning Indian restaurant. (Photo: Chutney House)

A mystery diner was sent in by the Business Awards organisers, to judge the food and service at the popular local restaurant.

Chutney House is set to hold a celebration, to thank the diners and voters, sometime in the near future.

Nazma continued: "This award is not just for Chutney House itself – it's representing the High Street. It is our diners' achievement as well.

"It will definitely bring more people in, who want to see what we have to offer as Essex's best restaurant.

"I'm very proud that we've managed to bring something to the High Street.

The team at Chutney House are proud to offer 'authentic' cuisine, avoiding any artificial flavours or colourings in their food.

Nazma said: "We don't use any. Everything comes to the table specially cooked.

"Every penny our customers pay at that dining table is worth it."

In September, Chutney House collaborated with Farleigh Hospice to celebrate the charity's 40th anniversary, hosting a special meal and a raffle.