14 foodie businesses shortlisted for honours

FROM cafes to a caterer, businesses across Leicestershire have been announced as finalists in this year’s Food Awards England.

The awards, now in their seventh year, aim to celebrate the best in the food industry, from restaurants, chefs and servers, to specialists and suppliers.

Organised by marketing agency Creative Oceanic, the awards have 23 categories, most of which are divided into regional sections. Following a public vote, the shortlisted businesses have been revealed - and there are 14 county businesses in the running to be named among the best in the country.

Winners will be revealed at a black-tie ceremony in Manchester on Monday, June 6. Accolades to be presented include Restaurant of the Year, Best Mexican Establishment, Retail Bakery of the Year and Best World Cuisine.

The Leicestershire finalists and the categories they are representing are:

■■Brown’s Cafe Bistro, Leicester - Cafe/Bistro of the Year (East Midlands);

■■James’ Cafe Bistro, Leicester - Cafe/Bistro of the Year (East Midlands);

■■The Tap House Bar and Restaurant, Ashby de la Zouch - Hotel Restaurant of the Year (Midlands);

■■The Dimblebee Catering Company, Leicester - Caterer of the Year (Midlands);

■■OGGI Simply Italian, Leicester - Best Italian Establishment (Midlands);

■■Restaurante Madeira, Leicester - Best Mediterranean Establishment (Midlands);

■■Kokoro, Leicester - Best Oriental Establishment (Midlands);

■■Plan Burrito, Loughborough - Best Mexican Establishment (Midlands);

■■The Good Earth, Leicester - Best Vegetarian Establishment (Midlands);

■■Seafood Basket, Leicester - Best Seafood Establishment (Midlands);

■■John’s House, Mountsorrel - Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year (national award);

■■Plan Burrito, Loughborough - Best

Street Food (national award);

■■Street Taste Co, Leicester - Best Street Food (national award);

■■Crafty St Martin’s, Leicester - Burger Bar of the Year (national award).

In addition to the Leicestershire finalists, The Olive Branch in Clipsham, Rutland is also in the running for the Gastro Pub of the Year (Midlands) title.

A spokesperson for The Food Awards England said: “England offers a wide range of places that serve world cuisines.

“The finalists were voted for by the public for providing authentic recipes and unique dishes to their diners, creating memorable experiences for both residents and visitors.

“Undoubtedly, there are some amazing specialists around the country, who know how to offer great service, delicious food and meet the expectations of their diners.

“These are the professionals that we aim to reward at The Food Awards England 2022.

“We would like to wish all the finalists the best of luck and we can’t wait to welcome all our guests and celebrate the winners with them.”