The Waterloo venue is no stranger to winning awards
10:26, 12 Aug 2025Updated 06:53, 13 Aug 2025
The team at Da Mount Gurkha(Image: Colin Lane/Liverpool Echo)
The 14th English Curry Awards 2025 returned this week, with a Liverpool venue taking home a prestigious title. The Oceanic Awards shine a spotlight on the “remarkable talents and dedication of individuals and establishments within the curry industry”.
This year was no different with the finalists representing the “crème de la crème”, showcasing the unrivalled skills and creativity of chefs, restaurateurs, and takeaway services across the nation.
The winners of the awards were announced at a ceremony on Monday, August 11 at the Eastside Rooms in Birmingham. The night saw the nation’s curry connoisseurs gather to recognise and applaud the exceptional achievements of the curry sector.
One Waterloo venue however came out head and shoulders above the rest. Da Mount Gurkha beat competition from the likes of Ikkayees Indian Restaurant, Sultan’s Palace and Holdi Bar to be named the best curry house in Liverpool.
Husband and wife Laxman and Geeta Bhandari(Image: Geeta Bhandari)
The curry house first opened back in 2015 and has gone on to establish itself as a local institution, with customers travelling from miles around to dine there. It is run by husband and wife Laxman and Geeta Bhandari, who live in Crosby. While 49-year-old Laxman oversees the kitchen, Geeta, 43, is the head of operations.
The mum and dad previously told the ECHO what it would mean for them to win. They said: “We were so shocked to find out about the nomination. It’s such good news, but it completely took us by surprise. We are excited but have been nervous ever since we opened the email.
Geeta Bhandari with husband Laxman at Da Mount Gurkha restaurant in Waterloo(Image: Colin Lane/Liverpool Echo)
“We have had awards before, so we know how to feel for it all. It is very rewarding to have gotten this far; we are very proud. But to win would be so great.
“Our curry is very special and not like any other. It’s fresh with all new ingredients. Once the customer orders the food, it is only then, we start to make it and take it to the table.”
The outstanding achievement award went to Askhaya the Picture Dome in Kensington and Victoria Street’s Sultan’s Palace was recognised for its excellence.
Laxman and Geeta have worked hard to build Da Mount Gurkha, and have now scooped a top award(Image: Geeta Bhandari)
Irfan Younis, Spokesperson for The 14th English Curry Awards 2025 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.
“The Awards provide a platform to applaud the exceptional efforts of those who have made significant contributions to the curry sector and continue to elevate the nation’s love for curry. We would like to congratulate all of our winners on their incredible accomplishments.”