A POPULAR Braintree takeaway is celebrating after scooping an award by holding a charity fundraiser.
The Balti Night Indian takeaway has been in Manor Street since 1987.
This month, the business won the 'Recommended by Restaurant Guru 2024' award based on reviews and ratings on the website.
It is the latest of many awards proudly displayed at the restaurant.
Jakir Hussain, 32, and his three brothers are the second generation to run the business.
Jakir said: “We feel amazing. It’s absolutely overwhelming.
“This award was out of the blue, but it’s amazing that they recognised our hard work.
“If I have to put our success down to something it would be to years of building relationships and gaining trust in the community by giving the best quality of service.
“Without our customers, we would not be here today.”
Balti Nights is celebrating the award with free starters and charity donations.
From Monday to Thursday in August, meals which cost over £25 will get a free starter or naan bread.
The cost of the starters ordered throughout the month will be added to a charity pot, and at the end of the month, Balti Night will run a poll to let their customers decide which local charity to donate to.
Jakar said: “This is a great opportunity to give back to the community, which my dad would’ve been proud of if he was still here.”
Jakar’s father set up the business in 1987, and sadly died three years ago.
Jakar said: “My dad was a person who supported others regardless of the situation they were in, and he brought us up to help other people in need.
“We want to follow his footsteps, which are big shoes to fill, but it’s something we want to do and find ways to give back.”
He continued: “We want to be part of the community, especially during such a bad time in the UK.
“As a company, we’re very diverse, so that’s another thing we want to spread positive awareness about.
“We want to show the world another perspective.”
Jakar added: “We are proud of the power of a family-run business, which has been part of Braintree for all these years.”
For more information visit baltinight.co.uk.
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