Sammy entered the hospitality industry at just 16, working his way up from kitchen porter before learning every aspect of the kitchen and later front-of-house service.

Experience in York and Harrogate eventually led him to establish his own restaurants in the Wakefield area, where he has become a familiar face over the past 22 years. Cinnamon Lounge has now been serving Horbury for 17 years.

Speaking after his success, Sammy said: “The customers made me who I am. You’ve got to be passionate about what you’re doing to succeed in this business.”

During his career, Sammy has watched British tastes become far more adventurous.

"People would order a jalfrezi, and now they’ll ask, ‘can you make it more authentic – add more chillies and more spices?’ He said.

While many restaurants now talk about ’fusion’ cooking, Sammy believes great curry has always evolved through different regional influences.

For him, the important thing isn’t giving it a fashionable label but respecting traditional techniques while allowing flavours to develop naturally.

The Curry Life Awards celebrate achievement and excellence across the UK curry industry, with 41 awards presented this year across restaurant, chef and takeaway categories.

The event also highlighted the challenges facing independent restaurants, including rising costs and staff shortages.

Syed Pasha, Editor-in-Chief, Curry Life Media Group, said: Congratulations to the winners of the Curry Life Awards 2026.

"This year marks the 17th edition of our Awards - a celebration of excellence in the curry sector and a testament to our commitment to highlight the hard work, resilience and creativity in the sector."

The Curry Life Awards 2026 are proudly sponsored by Cobra Beer, Work Permit Cloud, Mealgo and Hillside Travels.

For more information and the source, visit: Sweet taste of success as Horbury’s Cinnamon Lounge wins national Best Chef title