Burnley restaurant takes North-West title

Tastebuds were tingling and nerves jangling as Aroma Asian Restaurant, Church Street, scooped “North-West Restaurant of the Year” at the glitzy Manchester ceremony.

Owner Adbul Majeed said the evening was a definite highlight in a career spanning three decades.

“It was a complete surprise,” he said. “The first I knew about it was when I received a phone call a few weeks ago saying we were finalists. A judging panel had been to the restaurant without us knowing and the final decision was made through public votes and Trip Advisor reviews.

“This is a very proud moment. It is something to show for Burnley. This is my town and I always want to do my bit to help it.”

Majeed was 21 years old when he came to Burnley. He helped run family restaurant Koh-I-Noor in Manchester Road before in 1987 he spotted a car showroom in Church Street and decided to open Shalamar. Two decades later he modernised the building and rebranded it Aroma.

“Aroma is still doing well. There is more competition nowadays but that doesn’t make a difference to us. I have always said the key is consistency.”

Majeed said the award would not have been possible without the help of his team.

“It is a team effort. I have a fantastic bunch of lads working for me and this is all down to them.”

Burnley restaurateur arrived 35 years ago and never left

Architectural firm has designs on top awards

Revealed: best and worst food hygiene ratings in Burnley & Padiham