The Leicestershire Curry Awards 2025 welcomes a new face to its judging line-up this year – Matt Wright, founder of Great Food Club, an independent guide to the very best food and drink businesses across the East Midlands.
Matt has spent more than a decade championing independent restaurants, pubs, cafés and producers through Great Food Club’s website, handbook and awards. His work has taken him to hundreds of kitchens across the region, where he has celebrated skill, creativity and a commitment to quality.
“This is such a brilliant competition to be part of,” said Matt. “Leicester and Leicestershire have a proud food culture, and curry is right at the heart of that story. What excites me most is the variety – every restaurant has its own character, its own take on familiar dishes, and its own story to tell. That makes the judging both rewarding and fascinating.”
Matt praised the awards for shining a spotlight not just on the restaurants but on the individuals and families whose hard work has built Leicester’s reputation as one of the UK’s curry capitals. “Great food is always about more than flavour alone,” he added. “It’s about community, tradition and pride – and these awards capture that perfectly.”
After taking his place on this year’s judging panel, Matt looks forward to tonight’s celebrations. “It’s a celebration of dedication and diversity, and I’m honoured to play a small part in it,” he said. “Best of luck to all the finalists – you should all be proud of what you’ve achieved.”