New Delhi/Bhubaneswar: In a proud moment for the Odia diaspora in the United Kingdom and food lovers in Odisha, ‘Chillika’, an Odia-inspired restaurant in Bexleyheath, London, has won the 2026 English Curry Awards.

Inspired by the flavours of Odisha and named after Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, ‘Chillika’ serves traditional Odia cuisine alongside popular Indian street food.

The restaurant, located at 195 Broadway in Bexleyheath, features a diverse menu that includes authentic Odia specialities such as Dahi Bara Aloo Dum, along with tandoori dishes, chaats, biryanis and Odia-style goat curry.

Founded by Odia diaspora members Subhakanta Das and Partha Sarathi Panda, ‘Chillika’ aims to showcase Odisha’s rich culinary heritage while introducing its flavours to a wider audience in the UK.

The restaurant was officially inaugurated by Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida in 2024.

The journey of 'Chillika'

Das moved to the UK more than two decades ago as an IT professional. His culinary journey began with preparing traditional Odia dishes for family gatherings and community events.

Panda, who has a background in hospitality and business, brought his entrepreneurial experience and management expertise to the venture. Together, the duo established ‘Chillika’ with the aim of preserving and promoting Odisha’s regional culinary traditions.

Beyond its food offerings, the restaurant has emerged as a cultural bridge for the Odia community in the UK, demonstrating how cuisine can transcend borders, preserve heritage and strengthen community connections.

In 2025, ‘Chillika’ also hosted members of the India Under-19 cricket team, led by young batting talent Vaibhav Suryavanshi.

The restaurant’s latest recognition at the English Curry Awards has added another milestone to its journey of taking the flavours of Odisha to an international audience.