A POPULAR Blackburn burger joint has been shortlisted in the first ever Uber Eats awards.

King's Castle in Blackburn is one of just 10 North West eateries to make the shortlist at the awards, organised by the popular takeaway courier service.

They have been nominated for one of the top gongs - Restaurant of the Year 2022 - and are up against other businesses in major cities such as Manchester and Liverpool.

Lancashire Telegraph: King's Castle Blackburn burgerKing's Castle Blackburn burger

They are relying on customer votes to claim the top spot; and the winner will scoop £100,000 to build and expand their business.

Owner, Arif Patel, said it is a “great achievement” to be nominated.

He said: “This is a team effort, every single member of our team should be proud. We have worked really hard behind the scenes to try and maintain a high standard.

"It hasn’t always been plain sailing but our nomination for this award shows that we are on the right track.

“It is a great achievement to be chosen as one of only 10 stores in the North West, especially when you have some big names in major cities like Manchester and Liverpool.

“For us to be the only nominated eatery in Lancashire truly shows you the potential of Kings Castle. It is a great feeling for sure, but now we just need to get people to support and vote for us.”

Arif said the future is “looking bright” for the Blackburn business.

He said: “Its still early days for us, we are a growing brand with multiple locations due to be opening soon, but the future is looking bright for the brand.

“From the look and feel of our business to the quality ingredients used in our products, we focus on delivering a tasteful experience whilst also being considerate in our pricing.

"With some improvements I believe we can be the very best.”

King’s Castle Blackburn is best known for its burgers but also sells wraps, hot dogs, milkshakes and more.

They have a 4.4-star rating on Uber Eats and many customers have left glowing reviews.

One person said: “Really lovely place to eat food, was great, milkshakes are amazing. Best place so far in Blackburn… I'd say better than Archie's in Manchester.”

Another said: “Impromptu first visit today and what a pleasant surprise.

"Really cool theme and food was incredibly tasty. Very fresh and not stingy with portions.”

“I would absolutely recommend this location,” said another. “The food was excellent and flavoursome, and the pricing was appropriate.”

For the next stage in the voting process, customers can view the shortlist and vote for their favourite restaurants from across the UK and Ireland from today until June 16 at ubereatsawards.com.

The top restaurant from each region will then be invited to take part in a judging day, where their food will be tasted by the panel of judges, including Bake Off's Prue Leith, and Rachel Ama, a vegan chef.

Matthew Price, Uber Eats General Manager, Mark Lewis, Chief Executive at Hospitality Action, Lorraine Copes, Head of Procurement at Be Inclusive Hospitality, and Joseph Denison Carey, TV chef also contribute their wide-ranging expertise to the judging panel.

Mr Price said: “I can’t wait to see the fantastic stories that are brought to light, try some of the best food available on our high streets up and down the country, and recognise the pioneers and innovators shaping the future of our restaurant industry.”