Mushtaqs wins best takeaway accolade
Hamilton restaurant Mushtaqs tasted awards glory this week as it was crowned the Best Takeaway in Scotland.
Success was on the menu for the Almada Street business during a star-studded ceremony in London’s Savoy Hotel.
And the curry specialist was a red-hot success after claiming the Scottish title at the British Takeaway Awards.
Ajmal Mushtaq, owner of the Indian restaurant, said: “We’re incredibly humbled and proud to win Best Takeaway in Scotland.
“We’re delighted for the people of Hamilton, who have supported us tremendously over the last few years.
“I’m so happy that the hard work of our wonderful team at Mushtaqs has been recognised. This award is for them.”
The family-run business, which launched in 1972, prides itself on traditional cooking techniques and natural, fresh ingredients.
Judges were also impressed by the commitment of Mushtaqs in supporting young people into work, their charitable spirit and plans to grow the business.
TV chef Ainsley Harriott was on the judging panel and said: “The calibre of winners in this year’s British Takeaway Awards was very high.
“As judges, we had a lot of hard choices to make and in every category it was close, but the winners were exceptional.
“What we saw was chefs with a passion and restaurants with a desire to consistently produce good food and a commitment to their community.
“The winners are the crème de la crème in terms of what they offer the takeaway industry and they make it genuinely exciting to eat in.”
The British Takeaway Awards, run in association with website Justeat, celebrate the diverse range of food that the nation enjoys, as well as the contribution businesses make to their communities and the economy.
Graham Corfield, UK managing director of Just Eat, chaired the judging panel and added: “We’ve been really impressed with the finalists in Scotland.
“They’ve put their heart and soul into this and the passion to win this award has been on a different level.
“Mushtaqs really resonates with its customers for its great food and excellent customer service. It was a tough choice, but they are a worthy winner.”
Mushtaqs was one of the top five takeaways in Scotland that received the most nominations from the public.
Each of the finalists were marked on a mystery shopping experience, and provided a submission on why they deserved to win.
A panel of judges then reviewed the results and identified the 13 regional winners, which included Scotland.
Hamilton had two takeaways in the Scottish shortlist. Get Stuffed on Margaret Road, which specialises in sandwiches and breakfasts, was also in the running.