Bradford’s Best Curry Houses: My Favourites From the City of Culture 2025
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I was driving past a sign for Bradford’s City of Culture campaign recently, and it got me thinking—back when I was at university—in Bradford, which, incidentally, has one of the finest art schools in the country (David Hockney studied there)—my fellow arty, lazy, wayward student types made it our business to try every “curry house” (as we did and still do call them) in the city. We took it seriously. Every vodka-laced evening was followed by a bowl of something spicy, mopped up with buttery roti. Hangovers didn’t exist back then, and if they did, we slept through them.
Growing up in Bradford—now unfairly thought of as one of the country’s worst cities—was actually rather wonderful. The city is a melting pot of culture, and the fusion of its broad spectrum of nationalities produces a colourful and vibrant community, not to mention some of the most diverse food you’ll find anywhere.
So recently, when I visited one of my particularly favourite haunts—the original International—it got me thinking about which are the great curry houses in my hometown. Now, I can only speak from personal opinion and there are hundreds of fantastic restaurants to choose from—but we’d be here forever trying to list each one, never mind ordering a spicy rogan josh with extra coriander in every place.
So here are my favourite places in Bradford to chow down on a Ruby Murray—in no particular order:
The International (Morley Street)
This family-run spot has been a Bradford favourite since the 70s. No frills, no fuss—just generous portions of rich, spiced Punjabi classics like karahis, biryanis and buttery naan. It’s warm, reliable and the kind of place locals return to again and again.
Kebabeesh (Greengates)
A little more polished than your typical curry house, Kebabeesh blends traditional Pakistani and Indian flavours with a modern twist. The masala fish starter is a must, and the generous portions make it ideal for sharing with friends and family.
Sweet Centre (Lumb Lane)
This Bradford institution has been serving up hearty Kashmiri food since the 1960s. Known for its desi breakfasts—fluffy puris, chana masala and fresh samosas—it’s the place for big flavours and comforting, no-nonsense food.
Akbar’s (Leeds Road)
Big flavours, big portions, and even bigger naans (served on a hook at the table) have made Akbar’s famous well beyond Bradford. The karahi dishes are a must-try, and the lively atmosphere makes it perfect for family meals or catching up with friends.
Mumtaz (Great Horton Road)
Slick and stylish but still welcoming, Mumtaz is a great spot for a slightly more refined take on Kashmiri cuisine. Their creamy butter chicken and perfectly cooked biryanis keep regulars coming back for decades.
Karachi (Neal Street)
Bradford’s oldest curry house and still one of the best. With its pared-back décor and fast, friendly service, Karachi focuses on what matters: great food. The lamb and spinach karahi is legendary for good reason.
I’ve long since moved away from Bradford, but it will always be my hometown. Whenever the craving hits for a proper curry—one full of flavour and served up by warm, no-nonsense Yorkshire folk—it’s my hometown I’m heading for. Forget Birmingham, Blackburn, or even London: Bradford is where it’s at for the UK’s best curries. In fact, the very best curry I’ve ever had is cooked in a semi-detached house tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac just outside the city centre… but that’s my little secret, and it’s one I’m not willing to share.
Introducing Babur, an award winning Indian Restaurant in London
