Bradford's reputation for superb ethnic cuisine has propelled the city to a prestigious national award.

The city beat 15 other contenders to win the EthniCity 2006 award, further enhancing Bradford's appeal to diners.

A team of four restaurants represented each city and the EthniCity title was awarded to the city which emphasised its multicultural background.

Bradford also came third in the Kingfisher Curry Capital of Britain 2006 awards, which it won in 2004.

Glasgow took this year's title with Manchester in second.

"Fantastic food, friendly service combined with some sensational interiors make Bradford restaurants some of the best in the world," said Councillor Valerie Binney, Lord Mayor of Bradford.

Bradford's bid received strong backing from Bradford Council, which controversially failed to back Bradford's bid in 2003 when the award went to Glasgow.

Bradford was represented this year by the Nawaab, Kebabeesh, Mumtaz and Masti Shisha.

Mohammed Ashraf, from Nawaab, in Manor Row, said: "It was great to be a part of this success.

"This award is very good for the whole community of Bradford and for West Yorkshire as well.

"Bradford has got many good chefs. It won the Curry Capital award in 2004 and now it has been given this award. We are proud of what we have done but the other restaurants in the team have also done very well."

Organiser Peter Grove, editor of Menu Magazine, said the annual awards had been the most exciting yet.

He said: "This year the councils pulled out all the stops. Compared with the early years, they represented an embarrassment of riches and indicate just how important city councils feel the input of the ethnic community is."

During the awards process, the restaurants helped to raise £1,300 for the charity Action Against Hunger.

Bradford North MP Terry Rooney said the award was the best news he had heard all week.

He said: "I hope this will encourage visitors to come into the city and sample what's on offer. It could provide a tremendous boost for trade. It's great to be in the news for the right reasons for a change!"

e-mail: will.kilner @bradford.newsquest.co.uk