IT is the restaurant with 60 sumptuous dishes, 180 seats – and one award winning chef.

Azad Miah is the toast of Café Tusk after being named one of the top 12 chefs of the year by the Bangladesh Caterers Association.

The Fareham-based self-service restaurant walked away from the glamorous ceremony at Park Plaza Westminster Bridge Hotel with an Oscar-style trophy.

And while they are delighted to pick up the accolade, it came as no surprise to director Mosud Ahmed who has spent five years working hard to ensure the eatery is a hit with locals.

As soon as you sit down for a meal here, it is easy to see why it was also a hit with judges.

The starter section can only be described as a feast of onion bhajis, pakoras, succulent pieces of chicken tikka, samosas and poppadoms complete with accompanying chutneys, pickles, salads and sauces.

But if first course is base camp, the mains section is surely Everest.

There is everything a curry aficionado could possibly hope for with the India staples of korma, masala, vindaloo and vegetable mains and side dishes. But there are different choices every night with a personal favourite being the mint chicken.

Those who like it hot are well catered for too with a devilish chilli sauce capable of bringing a bead of sweat to the brow of even the hardiest spice fan.

Owner Mosud Ahmed is proud of the fact that while he offers big portions and a wide variety of choices, he does not sacrifice on the quality of his goods.

Behind the scenes there are chefs from Bangladesh, Nepal and India, each bringing their own styles and influences to the table.

Naturally, diners can visit the buffet as often as they want, but there is always plenty available from starters and mains to desserts.

For the variety and quality of food, prices are reasonable with lunch ranging from £6.99 to £8.50 and dinner from £12.99 to £13.99 depending on the night.

In short, Café Tusk offers prize winning cuisine, huge lip-smacking portions and good value – what’s not to like?

  • Café Tusk, 24 West Street, Fareham
  • 01329 235511/235522.
  • cafetusk.co.uk