Celebrating small and independent restaurants
Taqi’s Grill in Sparkbrook, Birmingham, is among the national finalists for Uber Eats’ 2025 Restaurant of the Year Awards.
The awards celebrate the creativity and resilience of small and independent restaurants across the UK and Ireland.
West Midlands contender tells of his delight
Salah Abdul-Rahman, owner of Taqi’s Grill, said: “This recognition is a true reflection of the hard work, passion, dedication and spirit that drives everything we do at Taqi’s Grill.
“Serving great food to our community has always been at the heart of our journey, and we’re truly grateful to be recognised at this level.
“We’re incredibly honoured that Taqi’s Grill has been invited to the Uber Eats restaurant of the year finals.
“Our entire journey has been built on the Uber Eats platform, and this milestone truly reflects how far we’ve come through the hard work, passion, dedication, and spirit we put into serving our community with great food.”
From viral Gen Z start-ups to long-standing community favourites, the awards shine a light on the independent food businesses that continue to shape the region’s dining scene.
Chosen from more than 130 nominated venues, the 12 regional champions will now compete for the top title and a £100,000 prize to invest in their growth.
Judges in London showcase
Finalists will gather in London later this year for a two-day celebration, including a judging day with culinary figures such as Levi Roots, Eating with Todd, Clodagh McKenna and 2024 winner Natty Crutchfield. Each finalist will also receive £5,000 and a tailored support package from Uber Eats to help them expand their reach.
Regional champions announced
Representing the West Midlands is Taqi’s Grill, joining a line-up of restaurants from across the country: Sanjugo (London), Silver’s Deli (Yorkshire), YAYAS (Scotland), Burg N Ice (North West), Sushi Me Rollin’ (North East), Sharkbite Burgers (Wales), Low & Slow (South West), Umami Street Food (South East), Wok & Grill (East Midlands & Anglia), Seed (Northern Ireland) and Urban Health (Ireland).
Trailblazer Awards
Alongside the main prize, five Trailblazer Awards will recognise businesses leading the way in positive change – from women-led kitchens to greener operations and youth entrepreneurship.
Backing independents
Matthew Price, General Manager of Uber Eats UK, Ireland and Northern Europe, said:
“Independent restaurants are the beating heart of the UK and Ireland’s food scene. Whether it’s your local burger joint, a climate-conscious vegan café, or a TikTok-famous pop-up, Uber Eats is proud to support the businesses that bring flavour, jobs, and culture to our communities. The Restaurant of the Year Awards are about more than a prize. They’re about championing those who are reshaping hospitality from the ground up and helping them accelerate their growth.”
