An award-winning chef has laid down the gauntlet to former EastEnders actor Shaun Williamson after he labelled all curries in Stevenage too bland for a baddy.

The Comet: Oli Khan, Executive Chef at SurmaOli Khan, Executive Chef at Surma (Image: Archant)

Oli Khan, 40, has offered Shaun a curry of his choice for free after the Aladdin panto star tweeted on Sunday: “Yet another bland curry from a Stevenage curry house. Been here eight weeks. Haven’t found a decent curry or Chinese.”

Oli owns the Surma Indian takeaway and the Spice Rouge restaurant in Stevenage Old Town and recently won a national accolade for his work at Curry Life magazine’s annual awards ceremony.

He said he “totally disagreed” with what Shaun said and wanted to put the record straight.

He added: “I’m not sure what he likes but whatever the meat - I’ll cook one of my signature dishes and I don’t cook to disappoint.

“I came to Stevenage around 16 years ago and I’ve had great success here. I’ve won several national awards for my cooking so the food can’t be bad. In fact I think Stevenage has the best curries in Hertfordshire.

“People come from all over to eat my food. Sometimes we have to put the phone down because we’re so busy.”

Shaun, who is currently performing this year’s panto at the Gordon Craig Theatre, agreed to have a meal at Oli’s restaurant next week.

He later tweeted: “Thanks to all the kind people of Stevenage for your recommendations of good curry houses. Look forward to trying them. Am enjoying my stay x.”

•What do you think about Stevenage’s curries? Give our news desk a call on 01438 866209 or email editorial@thecomet.net and let us know.