‘Being recognised alongside some of the best in the industry is both humbling and energising for our entire team’
A Hull restaurant hopes to be crowned the best in the North at a prestigious awards ceremony. Restaurants, bars, takeaways and hotels from across the country will come together later this month as finalists in a national awards programme, the prestigious Master Chef Promotions Business Hospitality and Excellence Awards 2025 – and the list of 66 finalists includes one popular Hull city centre restaurant.
Banarasi Indian Street Food & Grill, based in Princes Avenue, Hull, is the sole eatery flying the flag for the Humber region at the 10th anniversary of the annual awards. The team from Banarasi is one of three finalists in the Restaurant of the Year Northern Region category, and faces competition from Aperitif, in Sunderland, and Zest of India, in Blackpool.
And they can’t wait to go to the final in Birmingham, hoping they’ll bring back the culinary crown. The shortlisting comes weeks after Hull restaurant Brasa, which specialises in Portuguese food was named the best in the region at The Yorkshire Show.
A spokesman for Banarasi said: “We’re absolutely thrilled and honoured to be shortlisted as a finalist in the Master Chef Promotions Business Hospitality & Excellence Awards 2025. Being recognised alongside some of the best in the industry is both humbling and energising for our entire team.
“At Banarasi, we’ve created a truly unique dining concept that sets us apart — an All You Can Eat, tapas-style menu inspired by Indian street food culture. It’s a fresh, modern approach to traditional cuisine, where guests can enjoy small plates bursting with bold, authentic flavours — all served in a fun, vibrant atmosphere. No one else is offering this kind of experience in the way we do.
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“Miss Sheimona Jahan, director of Banarasi, brings her lifelong passion for food and hospitality — rooted in her family’s catering business background — to every element of the brand. Her leadership continues to drive Banarasi forward.
“Our manager Ree has a deep understanding of the market and our customers’ evolving tastes, ensuring the front-of-house experience is just as memorable. And our success is a result of a passionate and talented team. Chef Vikramjeet, who brings with him extensive experience from 5-star hotels and renowned restaurants across India, came to the UK specifically to lead our kitchen. His culinary expertise is at the heart of our menu.”
The shortlist for the Master Chef Promotions Business Hospitality and Excellence Awards 2025 was revealed at an event in Coventry earlier this week, ahead of the winners being announced at a glitzy ceremony held in the Midlands later this month.
First launched in 2015, the Master Chef Promotions Awards recognise excellence in hospitality businesses across the country, giving them the opportunity to showcase their talent and dedication to the industry. The awards have returned this year after a brief hiatus thanks to popular demand, attracting hundreds of entries from across the UK, many serving different cuisines.
A team of judges has whittled down the list to three finalists in each of the 22 categories, which include regional restaurant of the year categories, as well as fine dining, casual dining, newcomer and takeaway of the year, plus other categories recognising franchises, hotels and banqueting halls. Winners are set to be revealed at an event, expo and gala dinner at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole on Wednesday, August 27.
Industry veteran Professor Dr Rois Ali, chairman and CEO of Master Chef Promotions, said: “ “We’re delighted to announce the shortlist for the Master Chef Promotions Business Hospitality & Excellence Awards 2025. We were thrilled to see so many entries from the length and breadth of the country, showcasing so many different hospitality businesses, and we hope to build on this in coming years.
“Despite a few years’ break, these awards are a highlight in the culinary world, providing a platform to celebrate the remarkable achievements of chefs and food industry professionals, showcasing their talent and dedication. Our mission is to elevate the food industry through innovation and recognition among chefs and professionals – especially during what is currently a challenging time for hospitality.”