Dé Buddha Crowned Best Curry Establishment in Scotland
In an incredible feat that has firmly established its reputation among Scotland’s top culinary spots, De Buddha Authentic Nepalese Restaurant & Bar in Johnstone has snagged the coveted title of Best Curry Establishment in Scotland for 2025. This accolade, along with its recent triumphs for Best Dining Experience and Sustainable Restaurant of the Year, highlights De Buddha’s steadfast dedication to quality, authenticity, and environmentally friendly practices.
The Award-Winning Journey
Dé Buddha’s rise to culinary fame is truly remarkable. Just six months after opening its doors, the restaurant snagged the Best Newcomer award, and by June 2025, it had also claimed the Scottish Sustainable Curry Award. The most recent honor—Best Curry Establishment in Scotland—solidifies its status as a frontrunner in both taste and sustainability. These accolades reflect the hard work of Chef Rabi Maharjan and his team, who have masterfully combined tradition with innovation while keeping eco-friendly practices at the forefront.
Key Achievements:
- 🏆 Best Curry Establishment in Scotland (2025)
- 🏆 Best Dining Experience (2025) – Scottish Hospitality Awards
- 🏆 Sustainable Restaurant of the Year (2025) – Scottish Sustainable Curry Awards
- 🏆 Best Newcomer (2024) – Earlier recognition highlighting rapid impact.
The Secrets Behind the Success
1. Authentic Nepalese Cuisine with a Sustainable Twist
At the core of Dé Buddha’s charm lies its menu, which beautifully showcases traditional Nepalese recipes that have been cherished through the ages. You can’t miss dishes like Chicken Kathmandu, described by Mill Magazine as “a rich, warming bowl of curry that really packs a punch,” or the Steamed Chicken Mo:Mo, delightful dumplings paired with a signature peanut sauce. Everything is made with fresh herbs straight from the restaurant’s own garden, embracing a “greenhouse-to-plate” philosophy that not only cuts down on the carbon footprint but also guarantees incredible freshness. The menu also boasts hearty dal bhat, a flavorful Kashmiri lamb curry, and plenty of vegetarian options, all crafted to give you a genuine taste of Nepal.
2. Eco-Friendly Innovations
Dé Buddha is all about sustainability, and you can see it in everything they do. From using energy-efficient appliances to implementing waste reduction programs, this restaurant is raising the bar for eco-friendly dining. The Scottish Sustainable Curry Awards even took notice of their commitment to locally sourced ingredients, plant-based menu options, and carbon-neutral practices. This passion not only makes for a great dining experience but also meets the increasing demand from consumers for responsible hospitality.
3. Immersive Cultural Ambiance
Step into Dé Buddha, and you’ll feel like you’ve been whisked away to the majestic Himalayas. The décor is adorned with golden ornaments, prayer wheels, and vibrant artworks that have been lovingly imported from Nepal, striking a perfect balance between tranquility and liveliness. The atmosphere is further enhanced by the attentive service, which includes refreshing welcome drinks, engaging storytelling from the staff, and delightful surprise gifts—a personal touch that has garnered glowing reviews
4. Rave Reviews and Community Support
With a fantastic 4.9★ rating from more than 332 reviews, it’s clear that guests can’t stop raving about the restaurant’s generous portions, friendly staff, and unforgettable experiences. One happy diner, Yvonne Bickerton, shared, “Lovely food… staff are so friendly and attentive. Portions are really big.” This kind of feedback really highlights Dé Buddha’s knack for combining culinary excellence with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Behind the Scenes: Chef Rabi Maharjan’s Vision
Chef Rabi Maharjan, who previously delighted diners at Gourock’s beloved My Kitchen, has brought his vision to life with Dé Buddha, a heartfelt tribute to his Nepalese roots. His goal? To share “an authentic taste of Nepal with the Renfrewshire community.” With a keen eye for detail—right down to the custom-made furniture and cherished family recipes—he’s crafted a welcoming space where culture and cuisine beautifully blend. Looking ahead, Chef Rabi aims to expand his plant-based menu and deepen connections within the community.
❤️ Heartfelt Words from Our Guests
First time here and from start to go finish the staff couldn’t have been more welcoming. We received a small welcoming drink & chicken Bon Bon, tiny but delicious. I ordered a frozen strawberry daiquiri and it was delicious. Chicken croquets to start, chicken curry then white chocolate cheesecake, not sure where I found the space for it but it was out of this world. It was hard to believe we were in Johnstone & not somewhere on holiday. We will definitely be back.
-Jill Wilson
Visit Dé Buddha and Taste the Difference
Located conveniently in Johnstone, Dé Buddha is proud to represent Nepalese cuisine on a national stage. Come celebrate with us — bring your family, your friends, or just your appetite!
- Address : 12 Collier Street, Johnstone, Scotland
- Hours : Daily, 12 PM – 10 PM
- Visit our Gallery and explore photos from the awards night
The Bottom Line: Don’t Miss Out on Dé Buddha
Dé Buddha’s triumph as the Best Curry Establishment in Scotland isn’t just about winning an award; it’s a vibrant celebration of culture, sustainability, and culinary creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned curry lover or trying it for the first time, Dé Buddha offers a dining experience that tantalizes your taste buds and uplifts your spirit. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by—come join Chef Rabi and his team for a Himalayan culinary journey that you won’t forget!
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