It has been a great year for restaurants and takeaways in east London, with many winning coveted awards. 

As we approach the New Year, we've rounded up the awards and achievements of our favourite places to order from. 

Keep these on your list for takeaway treats in 2024!

Grand Cholan

Nestled in the Docklands, this Indian restaurant won big at the 2023 Euro Asia Curry Awards. 

Grand Cholan was crowned the Best South & North Indian Restaurant in East London at the awards. 

It also won the Rising Star Indian Restaurant of the Year award from The World Tamil Sangam, London awards at the Houses of Parliament.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series: The Grand Cholan team collecting their award at the Euro Asia Curry Awards 2023.The Grand Cholan team collecting their award at the Euro Asia Curry Awards 2023. (Image: Google Maps, Mez Captures)Located in Turnberry Quay, the restaurant takes inspiration from the Chola dynasty of the Tamil Kingdom. 

Under the Chola's rule in Southern India, South Asia and Sri Lanka, the population was introduced to innovative meals using new spice blends. 

The Grand Cholan takes inspiration from the history behind the Chola and their discoveries, serving traditional recipes to customers.

Efes

Efes in Canning Town was also recognised at the Euro Asia Curry Awards 2023.

The Turkish restaurant on Barking Road won Best Turkish Restaurant in East London.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series: The Efes team with their awardThe Efes team with their award (Image: Google Maps, Mez Captures)According to Uber Eats, the Turkish restaurant is one of the most popular spots for Turkish cuisine amongUber Eats customers in London.

With Turkish classics like falafel, donner kebab and tabbouleh, there is something for everyone. 

Clay Oven

This Dagenham-based Indian restaurant was honoured with the Best Takeaway award at the Curry Life Awards 2023. 

Clay Oven has been operating for 12 years under Milul Chowdhury, with the help of his son. 

East London and West Essex Guardian Series: Milul (middle) seen with the award, accompanied by Clay Oven's chef Abdul Halim (left) and marketing manager Rukon Hannan (right).Milul (middle) seen with the award, accompanied by Clay Oven's chef Abdul Halim (left) and marketing manager Rukon Hannan (right). (Image: Curry Life)The takeaway uses a traditional clay oven to grill meats, using barbeque-style techniques. 

This family owned business has an extensive menu, filled with popular mains and more traditional options. 

The Lane

This Wanstead-based Indian restaurant was awarded the title of Restaurant of the Year in the National Curry Awards 2023.

The Lane's menu plays with a fusion of traditional preparation methods and modern innovation to suit changing tastes. 

Vijay's Virasat Restaurant

Vijay's Virasat Restaurant had a great year, winning many awards. 

Most recently, the restaurant won the title of Best Hospitality Business at Ilford Business Awards 2023: Celebrating Business and Community. 

The awards are run by Ilford BID and this year's event featured 8,000 nominations for awards. 

East London and West Essex Guardian Series: Vijay's Virasat Restaurant representative collects award at the 2023 Ilford Business Awards.Vijay's Virasat Restaurant representative collects award at the 2023 Ilford Business Awards. (Image: Ilford BID)

The Indian restaurant also won Dining Experience of the Year (East) at the London Curry Awards 2023, a Good Food Award for 2023/24, with a Blue Ribbon for its high customer ratings.

It was also recognised by Restaurant Guru with a 'recommended' award for 2023.

Royal Nawaab

Royal Nawaab was also recognised in the Ilford Business Awards 2023. 

The restaurant was awarded Ilford Business of the Year. 

East London and West Essex Guardian Series: Winners, Royal Nawaab with Cllr. Sahdia WarraichWinners, Royal Nawaab with Cllr. Sahdia Warraich (Image: Ilford BID)

Royal Nawaab offers a fully Halal menu that specialises in Indian and Pakistani authentic dishes.