Result: Readers’ top takeaway

An Indian takeaway which aims to be part of the community has hit the spot with Echo readers.

Spice 1, in Luke sT errace, Sunderland, has been crowned as the Sunderland Echo Takeaway of the Year 2020 in a reader vote

Owned Syed Rahman says he is delighted with the accolade and he paid tribute to both his customers and staff.

Mr Rahman, 50, said: “The fact that we’ve been chosen by Sunderland Echo readers as the number one takeaway in Sunderland is a very proud moment for us.

"It is a recognition of all the efforts our staff have put in and I would like thank all our customers for the support they have shown.”

Second place in our annual competition was taken by Chinese takeaway Ling

Sun, in Vine Place, Sunderland, with third spot going to pizza takeaway, Golden Chef, in Borough Road, Sunderland.

Mr Rahman, who has been in the culinary business for over 30 years, says it is important for his business to be part of the community.

He said: ”There are few

reasons why our customers continuously come back.

"We get all our supplies fresh from local businesses.

"This not only supports the small business in our community, but we also build relationships and establish a trust so that we will get quality ingredients every time.

“We also have staff who have worked as chefs who have accumulated over 20 years of experience.

“Our food is tried and tested personally and calculate the amount of ingredients needed for the ideal dish before it is served to our customers”

He added: “Of course, not every customer enjoys the same dish which is where our chefs’ experience comes in as they can modify them to our customers’ needs.”

Spice 1 employs four people and has seen customers stay loyal during what has been a difficult year for the food business.

Mr Rahman said: “Coronavirus has not caused too many problems for us.

"Our customers have been very loyal.

"We do deliveries and a lot of people have been using that service.

"I know the virus has caused a lot of problems in the industry but, so far, we are doing OK.”

Spice 1 owner Syed Rahman with the Echo’s Takeaway of the Year trophy with, from left, head chef Bablu Rahman, Ali Abdul and Zakaria Kazi.

The takeaway is at 64 St Lukes Terrace, Sunderland.