A PETERSFIELD restaurateur is advising diners with curry on the Christmas menu to reserve a table as bookings soar after the chef won a top award.

In November chef Muhammed Alam of the Paradise Balti Restaurant and Takeaway in Lavant Street, and eight other curry chefs across the UK, were named the best in their regions.

The prestigious award was presented after he won a series of curry cook-offs judged by experts from the Bangladesh Caterers’ Association.

His signature king prawn dish saw him take the title of best chef ahead of rivals from Portsmouth, Southampton, Chichester and Guildford.

Paradise owner Samuj Ali of Petersfield said: “It was a great honour for him and for the restaurant.

“Since the award win there has been an increase in reservations.

“We will do our very best to fit everyone in, but booking now would be a good way of guaranteeing your Christmas curry.”

To reserve a table visit the website at www.paradisebaltipetersfield.co.uk or ring 01730 265162, or 01730 262748.