Base Camp Indian Kitchen – Cardiff restaurant wins award

Base Camp Indian Kitchen in Cardiff, founded by Nepalese entrepreneur and former manager of Penarth curry house Mint and Mustard, Ram Sapkota received the title at the Global Indian Restaurant Congress & Awards 2026 at the Royal Lancaster in London.

The event brought together more than 250 leading restaurateurs, chefs, and industry leaders from across the UK and internationally, and included Michelin-starred chef Atul Kochhar and Cyrus Todiwala OBE.

Mr Sapkota said: “Winning these awards is an incredible honour, not only for our team but also for Cardiff and Wales.

Base Camp Indian Kitchen was founded by Ram Sapkota (Image: Supplied)

“Hospitality is one of the most challenging industries to operate in, especially in the current climate.

“When we took on 29 Park Place, many people saw it as a difficult location. We believed in the site, believed in the city and believed in our vision.

“Today, we are proud to say that we have helped bring new life back to this part of Cardiff city centre.

“To receive international recognition alongside some of the most respected names in the hospitality industry is something we never imagined when we started this journey.

“These achievements belong to our entire team and to every guest who has supported us.”

Born in Nepal, Mr Sapkota moved to the UK to pursue a career in hospitality before launching Base Camp Indian Kitchen in Cardiff.

The restaurant has quickly earned national recognition, collecting a string of awards in 2026 including the HSBC & FSB Small Business Growth Award, Best New Restaurant in Wales, and a Hospitality Excellence Award.

Base Camp Indian Kitchen has won multiple awards since its opening (Image: Supplied)

It has also been named a finalist for the National Small Business Awards and the British Curry Championship 2026.

The restaurant blends traditional flavours from Nepal and India under its concept, “a culinary journey from the Himalayas to the coast,” and has become known for its warm service and hospitality.

Mr Sapkota said the restaurant remains committed to giving back to the community.

Most recently, Base Camp Indian Kitchen hosted a charity fundraising dinner in support of Marie Curie, raising more than £2,000 for the organisation.