The team at Thira, Blackburn’s beloved South Indian restaurant, are celebrating after being crowned South Indian Restaurant of the Year at the English Curry Awards 2025 — a prestigious event that honours the very best in the UK’s curry industry.
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Now in its 14th year, the awards were held at the Eastside Rooms in Birmingham on Monday 11 August and recognised the country’s top restaurants, chefs, and takeaways. Thira was singled out from dozens of contenders across England for its outstanding menu, warm service, and continued culinary excellence.
For fans of authentic dosas, fiery curries and the deep, distinctive flavours of Kerala cuisine, Thira has long been a standout on Blackburn’s dining map. Now, that local recognition has gone national.
The accolade is part of a wider trend celebrating regional and cultural diversity in the UK food scene, with the English Curry Awards showcasing everything from Afghani and Pakistani cuisine to street food and fine dining.
This year’s spokesperson for the awards, Irfan Younis, said:
“It was another memorable event that honoured the dedication and hard work of the nominees and celebrated the rich tapestry of flavours that the curry industry brings to the English culinary landscape.”
Thira now stands proudly among the elite, rubbing shoulders with the UK’s best curry houses. It’s a moment of pride for the town and another win for Blackburn’s booming independent food scene.
If you’ve never been — now is the time to book a table. https://www.thira-restaurant.co.uk
