Monday will see the launch of this year’s National Curry Week.

The annual event launched in 1998 to celebrate one of the nation’s favourite dishes and has grown year-on-year.

To celebrate the start of National Curry Week, the Gazette asked readers to nominate their favourite Indian restaurants in Colchester and north Essex.

And they didn’t disappoint, with more than 200 people putting forward their top Indian eatery.

Here’s some of the most popular suggestions and why readers think the restaurant is the best in the business.

Riverside Spice in Earls Colne

The restaurant was a popular choice with readers who described it as “the best curry house.”

On Tripadvisor it has a 4.5 rating.

One customer said: “Visiting here on holiday. Popped in thinking it would be empty on a random Tuesday. We were wrong. There were loads of people, who all clearly already knew just how fantastic Riverside Spice is. Best food we've had in a long time, of any sort. Beautifully spiced, plentiful, well priced and fantastic service and atmosphere. Couldn't ask for anything more.”

The Chickpea (also known as Ken’s Curry Stall)

This stall at Colchester market got rave reviews from our readers.

They described it as “incredible” and “so, so good.”

The team update their Facebook each week to reveal what will be on offer.

Dishes range from chicken Jalfrezi, Bombay potatoes to black dhal.

Speaking to the Gazette previously owner Ken Flatt said: “I feel so lucky to have something I really love doing and can make a living out of.”

The Spice, Elmstead

Another popular choice with our readers.

The restaurant has a four rating on Tripadvisor.

One review said: “Try this restaurant you will not be disappointed I have worked all over the country and never had food as good as this. We have been here lots of times and never had anything to complain about with the food or the service. All the staff are very friendly they can’t do enough for you and the place is spotless, they will even let you go and look in the kitchen if you wish. Try the salmon tikka its fantastic.”

The Britannia Gurkha Restaurant

The restaurant was mentioned a number of times by out readers.

A review on Tripadvisor said: “We sat down, ordered drinks, then the waitress asked us if we had any dietary requirements, we had one veggie with us.

“Starters came out and were very nice, the mains were a big bowl of rice and several bowls of curry (mostly veggie) came out. All were fantastic! As was the dessert. Would definitely recommend.”

Yak and Yeti

The restaurant offers Indian and Nepalese cuisine.

One review on Tripadvisor said: “Highly recommended for Nepalese and Indian food. Food was amazing smell really nice and looks fresh . Dish called lamb xacuti was exceptionally delicious if you do like spicy lamb.”

Another added: “Their food is amazing and delicious. And the environment is also amazing and cheerful. I will definitely go back again.”

Kismet

The restaurant was another popular choice among our readers.

One review on Tripadvisor said: “I've been a regular customer of Kismet for 15 years now, and I've not found another Indian restaurant or takeaway, not just in Colchester but anywhere, that beats it. Onion bhajis are the best i've ever tasted. It would be great if they would open a restaurant one day.”