A South Woodford restaurant has reached the finals of the London Curry Awards in three categories.

The Grand Trunk Road, High Road, has been nominated for restaurant of the year, best fine dining Indian restaurant and restaurant design of the year.

Owner Rajesh Suri said the eatery is inspired by India’s answer to America’s Route 66 – the Grand Trunk Road is a passageway that was built for traders in the 16th century.

The restaurant is said to be a living homage to the “varied flavours of Indian history”.

Rajesh said: “It is quite pleasing to know that people really take us seriously and enjoy what we offer.

“I am pleased we have been picked up.

“I think the reason for success is our quality, consistency and our passion to do our best.”

The restaurant, which has been open for around 18 months, has previously picked up culinary awards.

Grand Trunk Road is not the only Redbridge eatery to make it to the finals – four others have also made the list.

Jaipur, of Chigwell, Chigwell Road, Woodford Green has been shortlisted for best restaurant, as has Birashwamys, Fencepiece Road, Barkingside, and India Garden, Nightingale Lane, Wanstead.

In the dining experience of the year category, Jalalabad 2 Restaurant, Eastern Avenue, Newbury Park has been nominated.

The final results will be revealed at a black-tie awards ceremony, complete with a four-course meal, entertainment and drinks on April 30.

It is the first time the competition has been run for London restaurants and was launched after the success of the decade-long Scottish Curry Awards.

Irfan Younis, CEO of Oceanic Consulting, who is organising the event, said: “We are extremely excited to launch the first ever London Curry Awards at a time when the capital’s food industry is booming and the curry sector, in particular, is playing a massive part in creating this buzz.

“We can’t wait to find out more about the individuals and organisations involved and we wish them all the best of luck.”