The British Indian Good Food Guide has revealed its 2026 winners including the overall national champion
15:57, 10 Nov 2026Updated 16:06, 10 Nov 2026
Raval in Gateshead(Image: Facebook/Raval)
There are celebrations at a much loved restaurant in the North East for the second year in a row, after it has taken home the National Champion title in a new list compiled by the British Indian Good Food Guide. And don’t be surprised if you see a celeb or two raising a glass to the success of Raval in Gateshead, as it’s no stranger to a celebrity diner.
Every year, the British Indian Good Food Guide recognises 100 outstanding Indian restaurants across England, Scotland and Wales and the publishing of the 2026 rankings is great news for Raval, the brasserie and bar right at the end of the Tyne Bridge, as it retains National Champion, the highest distinction awarded by the Guide, for a second consecutive year.
First awarded the distinction in 2025, Raval maintained its position in the 2026 selection through the consistency and quality of its cooking and overall dining experience. The restaurant’s tasting menu demonstrated the breadth of the kitchen, with particular note made of their Maska Chicken Tikka Masala for its balance and depth of flavour, alongside confident grill and tandoor cooking.
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As well as taking the overall title, Raval was again named best in the North East, speaking about the Guide, its Editors commented: “Indian cuisine is woven into British life. For generations, Indian restaurants have been part of communities across the country, and today that tradition continues to evolve. Our 2026 selection reflects that breadth — from much-loved neighbourhood restaurants and regional specialists to some of Britain’s most ambitious modern kitchens.”
Over the years, many a famous face has walked through the doors at Raval for a bit to eat and a few drinks, including boyband legends Keith Duffy and Brian McFadden, ahead of their Boyzlife show at the nearby Glasshouse and Spandau Ballet frontman Tony Hadley, who also did the same when he was in town to perform for a captive audience.
Others to dine at Raval included ex Newcastle and England striker Alan Shearer, Neighbours icon Ryan Maloney and ex Strictly pro Brendan Cole.
Raval’s Indian Food Guide acclaim comes just over a month after it was named Fine Dining Indian Restaurant of the Year at the Indian Restaurant Summit & Honours 2026.
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Dining and Cooking