A curry is undoubtedly one of the nation's favourite dishes - and there are plenty of award winning curry houses to try in south Essex.

These are some of the best curry houses and takeaways in the area, according to Tripadvisor reviews.

Red Chilliezs in Westcliff

This South Indian restaurant is loved by residents, which is reflected on Tripadvisor with a 4.5 rating and 345 "excellent" reviews.

Reviewer Bill G wrote: "The restaurant was well lit and appeared recently redecorated showing the restaurant's South Indian styling.

"We were greeted as friends, which was lovely, the menu options and dishes were explained in full and discussed.

"Service was friendly and well paced, the food was exquisite, all in all a lovely dining experience. I cannot praise the staff highly enough."

The restaurant can be found at 629 London Road.

Maharaja Restaurant in Benfleet

This multi-award winning restaurant is another amazing curry house on our patch with a whopping 871 "excellent" reviews and a 4.5 rating.

Dreamer80812 had a great time at the plush restaurant, writing: "From when we arrived the staff were amazing especially Jay, we even tried out Baller’s which is the Shisha area. Amazing, comfortable, warm, and also opens up in the summer, they will have TVs out there for sport, such a relaxing area, highly recommend."

It can be found at 358 London Road.

Ashiana in Southend

Open since 2012, Ashiana is a popular restaurant in Southchurch Road, and with 255 "excellent" reviews it is certainly worth a try.

Tripadvisor reviewer Lintyuk said: "We try to order at least one new dish each time we visit and last night did not disappoint, chef and service on point as always, the staff [are] genuinely kind and friendly."

Ashiana is located at 565 Southchurch Road.

Tandoori Parlour in Thundersley

This Tiffin Cup trophy winning restaurant actually offers Nepalese and Indian cuisine with a modern twist on traditional methods.

With 568 "excellent" reviews on Tripadvisor and a 4.5 rating, it is hugely popular in south Essex.

Jade G said: "Excellent night out. The staff are so welcoming and friendly as always. The food was fantastic and everything you could want in an Indian. We had a great table and had a really great date night. Highly recommend!"

It can be found at 61-63 Hart Road.

Get more stories like this delivered to your inbox every day by signing up to our morning newsletter - don't miss out!

Basil Spice in Basildon

This restaurant, bar and takeaway also has a 4.5 rating on Tripadvisor with 224 "excellent" reviews.

Jemmab1402 has dubbed the spot a "hidden gem" in town, writing: "We came here last night as a group of 16 for my husbands 40th birthday. What a brilliant night we had! 

"The food was amazing, the staff were excellent. The atmosphere was one the best I’ve experienced in a restaurant.

"The owner Adam goes above and beyond to make you feel welcome. Claire was also amazing, so friendly and helpful! Definitely an asset to the team."

It is located in Unit 2 at Adams Business Centre in Cranes Farm Road.

Marco Polo in Wickford

Marco Polo has been described as the "best Indian restaurant for miles" by Tripadvisor reviewers, with 137 top reviews and a 4.5 rating.

Nicola K reviewed: "We go here at least twice a month. Everyone is very welcoming despite our bespoke requests (I ask for a spicy Korma - madras hot and it is delicious). The Marco Polo rice is a must great service and nothing is too much trouble."

It can be found at 9 Lower Southend Road.

Kushi on Canvey

Last but certainly not least, this curry house on Canvey has 155 five-star reviews and a 4.5 rating on Tripadvisor.

583Lewisc reviewed: "Have been here a few times before, food is always delicious both eat in and takeaway. Service is fantastic, very polite and helpful staff. We were served by Shopon tonight who was very friendly and gave great service. Will definitely come again, recommend to anyone."

This Indian restaurant can be found at 59 Furtherwick Road.