Mohammed Is Merton's Curry King!

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Raynes Park restaurant wins annual curry competition

Cocum restaurant in Raynes Park was crowned winner of the Curry Chef Competition 2014.

Chef Mohammed Valiyakath beat five rivals who reached Merton Council's annual Curry Competition final held at the new kitchens at South Thames College, Morden.

The winning dish was nadan chicken curry with onion rice and cauliflower chilli. Chef Mohammed Valiyakath received the Curry Chef trophy, certificate and £50 prize money, courtesy of sponsor Niru Europe and Aqua Coco, from Mayor of Merton, Councillor Krystal Miller.

The five runners up- Litu Khan (House of Spice in Raynes Park), Riazul Islam (King Curry, Morden), Mohammed Rahman (Red Rose, Raynes Park), Kedar Arya (Chak 89, Mitcham) and Abu Aziz (K2 in Wimbledon) received £25 and a certificate.

Mayor of Merton, Councillor Krystal Miller (pictured with Mohammed Valiyakath) said: "Congratulations to Cocum on their victory. We are fortunate in Merton to have an array of exceptional curry houses. All the finalists can be proud of their efforts."

Merton’s cabinet member for environmental cleanliness and parking, Councillor Judy Saunders, one of the judges at the competition said: "The standard and quality of food prepared by all finalists was of the highest quality. Each chef displayed excellent culinary and hygiene awareness skills and were worthy finalists."

February 20, 2014