A HIGH-END Northumberland restaurant has become the first Indian eatery in the region to be recommended by the prestigious Michelin Guide.

Haveli in Darras Hall has been awarded an official endorsement from the Michelin Guide to Great Britain and Ireland 2016.

Michelin inspectors were impressed by the restaurant’s smart setting, professional and personable staff and food influences that spanned India.

The recommendation also singled out the chef’s signature curries as something to try.

Since opening its doors in 2013 the restaurant has attracted a loyal following.

Owner Sunil Mehra said: “We are absolutely delighted by the recommendation of the Michelin inspectors.

“The team works incredibly hard to ensure Haveli offers the best Indian food possible.

“We use only the best quality and freshest ingredients available.

“I’m thankful to the Haveli team, our suppliers and, of course, our customers.

“The vision was to create a restaurant that the North-East could be proud of, so this incredible endorsement is a significant milestone on our journey.

“We challenge ourselves on a daily basis to innovate and strive to improve each aspect of Haveli so that our customers are wowed every time they visit.”

Haveli’s inclusion in the Michelin Guide comes after it was shortlisted for the Tiffin Cup, a competition created by a group of MPs to celebrate quality South Asian food in Britain and raise money for charity.

Every year MPs are invited to nominate a restaurant in their constituency that they believe is worthy of being crowned the nation’s finest South Asian restaurant.

Haveli was nominated for this year’s competition by Hexham’s MP Guy Opperman.

He said: “I am delighted the nomination for Haveli has been accepted and that the restaurant will be
taking part in this year’s Tiffin Cup.

“Having eaten at Haveli myself, I know this really is top quality cooking at its finest.

“This is a very prestigious competition and I look forward to welcoming the Haveli team to the House of Commons.

“I am sure everyone will be rooting for Haveli to become Tiffin Cup 2015 champions!”