An Indian restaurant in Edinburgh has been named as the 'best Asian food newcomer' in Scotland after being open for less than six months.
Cilantro in Leith was given the impressive title at the Asian Restaurant Awards last week after a plush ceremony was held at the Sheraton Grand Hotel and Spa in the city on November 1.
Only opening its doors to customers in June, the eatery is based in a small unit that can only accommodate 20 diners at any one time, but has now proved their worth trying to squeeze in a booking for.
READ MORE - Great British Bake Off star to host festive family feast at the Bonnie Badger
Offering a selection of classic Indian dishes and curries from a bhuna to a spicy vindaloo, the menu also boasts a range of different kebabs, wings and a large range of vegetarian options.
The award is not the first for Mohammad Abbas, with the owner also seeing his West Lothian restaurant, Bo'ness Spice, named as a finalist in the Outstanding Indian Restaurant of the Year category in the Scottish Asian Food Awards.
Speaking about the achievement, he said: “I’m overjoyed to have Cilantro rated as the best new Asian restaurant in the country, especially considering the extremely tough competition from far larger establishments."
“It’s due to the hard work of my team and their commitment to total quality in everything they do,” he added. Our policy is to use only authentic flavoursome ingredients, cook them in authentic ways and serve them with care - and a smile! This award demonstrates that we’re meeting the high standards we set ourselves.”
However, Mohammad added a note of caution on the current state of the hospitality industry.
“The rising cost of ingredients and energy is casting a shadow over the entire restaurant business as well as the overall economy,” he said. “Businesses and consumers are all facing massive increases in the prices of food and utilities. There has never been a greater need for restaurants to provide high-quality meals and the best possible value for money.”
Neither restaurant is licensed but diners can bring their own alcoholic drinks with a small corkage charge added.
READ MORE:
Edinburgh bar inspired by Lord of the Rings earns rave reviews online
Plush Edinburgh restaurant announces fresh new cocktail menu in time for Christmas
Popular Edinburgh cafe creates adorable second venue out of old police box
Edinburgh Trams running special 'Santa Express' in December with treats for kids
Coca-Cola teases Christmas truck tour could be on its way back for 2022
