More than a dozen Staffordshire people and businesses are looking for support from the public in the finals of this year’s Midlands Food, Drink and Hospitality Awards.
The establishments have been shortlisted across 13 of the 29 categories with a public vote, which will account for 25 per cent of the final decision, now being held. Finalists will also be marked on the strength of their application, testimonials and the evidence provided.
It is the seventh year the awards – aimed at recognising and celebrating great work done within the industry – have taken place.
Staffordshire has three finalists in the running for Afternoon Tea Establishment of the Year – Cup A Cha, in Stafford, Pretty Pots, also in Stafford, and The Sidings Tea Room, in Brownhills.
Cup A Cha is also hoping to take home the title of Independent Coffee Shop of the Year and is up against French & Byrne, also in Stafford, and Lichfield’s Thyme Kitchen, which is also shortlisted in the Casual Dining Restaurant of the Year category alongside Cigno, in Burntwood, and Uttoxeter’s Lowe’s On Carter Street.
Long Gallery Bar @ Hoar Cross Hall, in Burton upon Trent, appears in three shortlist categories – Cocktail Bar of the Year, Hotel Bar of the Year and Luke Thorpe, from the venue, is a Bar/Restaurant Manager of the Year finalist.
Michelin-starred dining experience Upstairs by Tom Shepherd, in Lichfield, is shortlisted for Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year, whilst Tom Shepherd himself is in the running for Chef of the Year.
And two local events – Lichfield Food Festival and Stafford Music & Food Festival – are up against each other in the Food/Drink Festival of the Year category.
The Traditional Pub of the Year award sees Duke of York, in Lichfield, and Cannock’s The Arcade both representing Staffordshire.
Others on the shortlist are The Tawny, in Consall, hoping to be named Boutique Hotel of the Year, Trinity Brew Co, in Lichfield, up for Brewery/Distillery of the Year and The English Indian, also Lichfield, is a Street Food Operator of the Year finalist.
This year’s theme for the awards is Hospitality Hearts and reflects the caring, supportive, and passionate individuals who go above and beyond to ensure everyone feels welcome and valued.
The final takes place in Birmingham on 17 June.
A spokesperson for the awards said: “As we continue our mission to elevate the Midlands as a premier destination for food, drink, and hospitality, we recognise the importance of these awards in promoting local businesses and building a sense of community and collaboration. In these challenging times, it is more vital than ever to support and celebrate the resilience and creativity of our industry.
“Selecting the finalists has been no small feat, faced with the high calibre of nominees demonstrating excellence, innovation, and a commitment to the community.”
To vote, click here.
