Curry has a longer history in Britain than many realise. The first restaurant dedicated to it — the Hindoostane Coffee House — opened in London in 1810, offering diners a taste of India two centuries before “chicken tikka masala” became a household phrase.
Bradford’s love affair with curry began in 1942, when the Kashmir Restaurant first opened its doors. That simple step laid the groundwork for Bradford to grow into the Curry Capital of Britain, celebrated not just for its dishes but for the communities and traditions that built them.
This September the story comes full circle with Bradford hosting the World Curry Festival, part of the City of Culture year. For two weeks the city will showcase how curry connects heritage, family, and migration with new ideas about food, sustainability, and the future of the industry.
From the 1810 coffee house to the bustling streets of modern Bradford, the journey of curry tells a story of Britain itself: rooted in change, strengthened by community, and always full of flavour.
With Autumn rolling in, time to spice up evening meals, Steve and the Team
