A Southampton Indian restaurant has been shortlisted for the Asian Curry Awards 2023.

Késarum, which is located on the QE2 mile, is among 200 venues included on the list for the event.

The award ceremony, which has been dubbed as the “Curry Oscars”, is the biggest event in the Asian culinary calendar.

The list of over 200 venues across the country will now be whittled down to the top 100 by online votes from members of the public who will decide the finalists.

These will then be assessed by a panel of judges from the Asian Catering Federation (ACF), who will determine category winners.

ACF Chairman Yawar Khan said: “We’re seeing some remarkable innovation by pioneering restaurateurs, adapting to challenging trading conditions and more sophisticated customer preferences.

“Afternoon chai, weekend brunch, more use of quality local produce – especially seafood and game, are now being widely served."

The full shortlist can be seen on the Asian Curry Awards website here and you can vote for Késarum there too.

Késarum shortlisted for Asian Curry Awards 2023

On its website, the restaurant says Késarum means 'saffron' in Sanskrit and describes itself as "a modern plant-based bistro and bar".

It adds: "Daring to defy perceptions of Indian, vegan and vegetarian dining, we re-invent flavours with contemporary flare for herbivores, carnivores and omnivores alike."

Additionally, they take great pride in exploring the "boundlessness of modern Indian cuisine" to create "authentic flavours" that is balanced to the palate and "respectful to tradition".

Késarum has also been well-received on Tripadvisor, earning a perfect 5/5 score on the review site.

One satisfied customer posted: "Everything about the evening was first class, starting with the welcome from the owner. It was a busy Saturday night but at no time did we feel we had to wait.

"The quality of the food was exceptional and each element of each dish was explained to us. This restaurant deserves to do well so I hope it is supported."

Another shared: "Really enjoyed our evening at Kesarum. Excellent food, a lovely local ale and a relaxed and charming environment.

"The food has been designed with creativity but still filling and full of flavour. Thoroughly recommend."