Bunta Beer Reports 40% Growth as It Rethinks Britain’s Beer and Curry Pairing

Beer and curry have long been a favourite British pairing. 

But as Indian dining becomes more varied, adventurous and sophisticated, should we give a little more thought to the beer in our glass?

British-Indian alcohol-free brand Bunta Beer thinks so. Ahead of National Curry Week, which runs from 5–11 October 2026, it is encouraging diners to reconsider the familiar drinks traditionally served alongside Indian food.

Founded by Gunikka Ahuja, Bunta was created to offer a contemporary alternative to established curry-house beers. Ahuja moved to London from Los Angeles, bringing her Indian heritage and international experience to a brand designed around food, flavour and changing drinking habits.

The business reports 40% year-on-year growth, with new accounts spanning restaurants, hotels, pubs, independent shops and specialist drinks businesses. Recent additions include the Royal Albert Hall, Novotel, Pahli Hill, Mandira Kitchen, Bombay Bustle and The Gladstone Arms.

That expansion reflects Bunta’s belief that the drinks menu deserves the same attention as the food menu.

Across Britain, diners are exploring regional Indian specialities, street food, contemporary restaurants and premium meals at home. For Ahuja, this growing curiosity presents an opportunity to rethink what accompanies those dishes.

Bunta describes its beer as alcohol-free, with low carbonation and flavours developed to complement Indian cuisine. That could appeal to anyone seeking an alternative drink for their next curry night, whether dining out or eating at home.

Pairing beer with Indian food involves more than finding something cold. Bitterness, malt, body and carbonation can influence how a drink works alongside chilli, creamy sauces, fragrant spices and smoky tandoori dishes.

A rich curry and a fiery dish may therefore call for different qualities in the accompanying beer.

For National Curry Week inspiration, Ahuja recommends the comforting Saag Murgh at London’s Bombay Bustle, and the Masala Haddock Bun at The Latimer, featuring battered fish, lettuce, cheese and tartare sauce.

Her choices also include Pahli Hill’s fish curry with green mango, coconut and tamarind, plus dishes at Oudh 1722 and The Gladstone Arms.

Of course, readers can experiment closer to home too. Your favourite takeaway, a homemade curry or a regional recipe could provide the opportunity to explore an alcohol-free pairing.

Bunta’s message is straightforward: as Indian food continues to evolve, the drinks served alongside it can evolve as well.

Perhaps this National Curry Week, the most interesting change will be what you pour alongside your dinner.

Find out more at buntabeer.com.

Celebrating National Curry Week in the UK: A Flavourful Tribute to a Nation’s Favourite

Every October, the UK takes a week to honour a dish that has truly become part of the national identity – curry. National Curry Week is a celebration of the rich, diverse, and flavourful cuisine that has found a special place on British dinner tables. 

From the iconic chicken tikka masala to the fiery vindaloo, curry has woven itself into the culinary fabric of the UK, representing a blend of cultures and tastes.

A Brief History of Curry in the UK

While curry has roots in South Asia, particularly in India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, it was introduced to the UK during the days of the British Empire.

Indian spices and flavours were brought back by British merchants, and soon, curry houses began to spring up in British cities. In fact, the first curry house opened in London in 1810 by a Bengali entrepreneur. Since then, curry has evolved and adapted to British palates, creating unique dishes that are now considered quintessentially British, such as chicken tikka masala, which is often hailed as Britain’s national dish.

Why Celebrate National Curry Week?

National Curry Week, first established in 1998, isn’t just about indulging in your favourite dishes (though that’s certainly encouraged!). It’s about celebrating the cultural diversity that curry represents and recognising the contribution of South Asian communities to British society. Curry has long been a symbol of cultural exchange, bringing people together over shared meals and expanding our appreciation for different flavours and traditions.

How to Celebrate

Visit Your Local Curry House

One of the best ways to celebrate National Curry Week is by supporting your local curry house or Indian restaurant. The UK is home to thousands of Indian, Bangladeshi, and Pakistani restaurants, many of which are family-run businesses. Whether you love a creamy korma or prefer the heat of a madras, enjoying a meal at one of these establishments not only celebrates curry but also supports local communities.

Cook Your Own Curry

If you prefer to celebrate at home, why not try your hand at making your own curry? There’s something truly rewarding about creating your own spice mix and watching your dish come together. You can find plenty of recipes online, ranging from mild curries for beginners to more complex dishes for those feeling adventurous. Get the family involved for a fun cooking session!

Try a New Dish

National Curry Week is the perfect opportunity to step out of your comfort zone. If you always order the same dish, why not mix it up? Explore lesser-known regional curries such as Goan fish curry, Bengali mustard chicken, or a rich Rogan Josh from Kashmir. Many Indian restaurants offer a wide variety of dishes from different regions, allowing you to broaden your culinary horizons.

Host a Curry Night

Gather your friends or family for a curry night at home. You could order a variety of dishes from your local curry house and share them, or each person could bring their favourite homemade curry for a communal feast. It’s a great way to try different dishes and celebrate the cultural richness that curry brings.

Learn About the Origins of Curry

National Curry Week is also an excellent time to delve deeper into the history and cultural significance of curry. Understanding the origins of the spices and techniques used in different types of curries can enhance your appreciation of the dish. You might also want to explore the historical ties between the UK and the Indian subcontinent, which have shaped the evolution of curry in Britain.

The Future of Curry in the UK

Curry is not just a dish of the past; it’s a food that continues to evolve. With more people experimenting with plant-based diets, we’re seeing a rise in vegan and vegetarian curry options. Fusion dishes, combining British and Indian influences, are also becoming more popular, ensuring that curry remains a dynamic and integral part of British cuisine.

In recent years, initiatives like National Curry Week have helped to spotlight not only the incredible flavours of curry but also the stories of those behind the dishes. From the chefs who bring their culinary expertise to the table to the families who run curry houses for generations, curry in the UK is a story of community, resilience, and shared culture.

National Curry Week is a time to celebrate everything that curry represents – from its rich flavours to its cultural significance. Whether you’re a fan of a mild butter chicken or prefer the fiery punch of a phaal, this week is all about embracing the dish that has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of millions across the UK. So, grab your naan, prepare your rice, and celebrate this flavour-packed week in true British style!

https://www.nationalcurryweek.co.uk