Taj Top of the Restaurants

Dec 9 2011 by Jennifer Buchanan, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

THEY’RE the best in Scotland, and that’s official.

The popular Taj Tandoori in Prestwick has been named Best in Scotland at the prestigious British Curry Awards.

And owner Rabinder Singh Uppal, better known around the town as Bobby, says it was one of the best moments of his life.

He explained: “All restaurants are sent forms in February asking if they want to apply.

“And if you’re accepted they send out more forms for customers to fill in and send back, as well as checking into you on TripAdvisor.”

The Taj also had to put together an extensive portfolio covering the entire 30 year history of the restaurant and submitted it to judges.

But the lengthy application process doesn’t stop there.

For judges for the awards then drop in for a meal unannounced to see for themselves what the restaurant is like.

And once the thousands of applicants have been whittled down to the top five, the finalists have to make a film showcasing their eatery.

Bobby continued: “We filmed outside the restaurant, showed our chef making starters and main courses and had an interview with me.

“The movie is then cut to 30 seconds and the top five are shown on the big screen at the awards.

“Whoever wins is the picture left up at the end.

“And I just couldn't believe it when my photo was left up.

“We were up against some really big guys from Glasgow and Edinburgh.

“So for our wee family place to win is unbelievable.”

Bobby’s entire family travelled down to the star studded awards ceremony, which was held at the posh Battersea Evolution in London.

And when Bobby took to the stage to accept his trophy, it was presented to him by celeb chef and Saturday Kitchen host James Martin.

Prime Minister David Cameron also announced the winner of Personality of the Year over video message.

And Mayor of London Boris Johnson presented the Special Recognition award.

Bobby said: “The whole night was great.

“It was like nothing I’ve ever been to in my life.”