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 Echo asked readers to nominate their favourite Indian restaurants in south 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.

Basil Spice, Basildon

Joanne Cannon- Mills said: “Amazing food, nothing ever too much. Never been let down with any of the food.

Claire Pryke said: “Amazing food and always going above and beyond for customers with little finishing touches like birthday balloons.”

Katie Quinnsaid: “Tried so many of them but basil Spice won my whole family’s heart.

Sultana, Wickford

Heather Flynn said: “Very good food and very friendly staff that go that extra mile.”

Colette Boosey said: “Wonderful food and service and very accommodating to taste.”

Marc Tanner said: “Excellent food and service highly recommended.”

Asia, Benfleet

Amanda Bewick said: “Without a shadow of doubt, the tastiest curry ever & the most friendliest service ever.”

Sky Butcher said: “It’s the best-owned by one of the loveliest caring guys.”

The Tandoori Hut, Southend

Ashley Morgan said: “All day, everyday and twice on a Sunday.”

Thomas Hazell said: “No place better.”

Other popular suggestions included Polash in Shoebury and Café Masala in Thorpe Bay.

Earlier this year, an Echo competition saw Asia, Castle Spice and The Tandoori Hut all named inside the top five takeaways sites in south Essex.

The popular Basil Spice also finished inside the top 10 in ninth place.