Chef Jay Ahmed Celebrates Award-Winning Authentic Cuisine
Shozna Rochester, led by chef Jay Ahmed, proudly won Authentic Restaurant of the Year at the Asian Curry Awards 2025, adding to its stellar reputation ahead of its 30th anniversary.
T he 2025 Asian Curry Awards, often referred to as the “Curry Oscars,” was a momentous occasion for Shozna in Rochester as it claimed the prestigious title of Authentic Restaurant of the Year for the South East of England. The awards ceremony, held on 17th November 2025 at Grosvenor House in Mayfair, London, brought together over 1,200 guests, including some of the finest chefs, restaurateurs, and leaders in the culinary industry.
At the centre of Shozna’s success is its executive chef, Jay Ahmed, whose exceptional culinary skill and leadership played a pivotal role in securing the award. This latest honour adds to Shozna’s distinguished history, as the restaurant — along with its founder, Jay Ahmed — has been the recipient of numerous prestigious awards and accolades over the last three decades. Shozna stands as a shining symbol of authenticity and excellence, solidifying its reputation as a culinary landmark in Kent.
As Shozna approaches its 30th anniversary in April next year, this milestone win serves as a testament to its enduring commitment to providing authentic cuisine and exceptional service. For nearly three decades, Shozna has been delighting its loyal patrons with high-quality dishes, attention to detail, and a steadfast passion for innovation.
Meanwhile, another Kent establishment, Humayra in Sittingbourne, also earned recognition at the event. The restaurant’s manager, Rose Ahmed, proudly took home the award for Takeaway of the Year for the South East, marking a double success for the region and underlining Kent’s growing prominence in the field of Asian cuisine.
These accolades reflect not only the talent and dedication of the teams at Shozna and Humayra but also the strength and vibrancy of Asian cuisine in the UK. As Shozna looks forward to celebrating three decades of excellence in April, its success continues to leave an indelible mark on the British dining scene.
Kent diners can take pride in these local gems, which prove once more that the region is home to some of the finest restaurants and takeaways in the country.
