Below is the full list of 2016 Categories. Once you have read through the requirements and outlines head to the REGISTER page and let us know which categories you’d like to be considered in!

 

Best Newcomer (Open Since July 2015)

This category is limited to any venues open in the last 12 months or less and aims to reward that classic Italian entrepreneur spirit!

Best Pizza

Be it a Neapolitan margherita or a fusion creation we’re looking for the best. Celebrity chef Aldo Zilli will lead the judging of the category. All finalists in this category will be required to attend a practical final. Date & Location TBC. 

Best Pasta

A chance to celebrate Nonna’s secret recipe! Best pasta will be judged on a single dish, so prepare to dazzle our panel, lead by Aldo Zilli, with your signature pasta. All finalists in this category will be required to attend a practical final at Tennent’s Training Academy, date TBC.

Best Chef

Finalists in this category will have to amaze you and our head judge Aldo Zilli with a unique and first-class dish.  All finalists in this category will be required to attend the cook-off at Tennent’s Training Academy, Glasgow, date TBC. 

Best Barista

This category rewards all the coffee lovers. Looking for real barista flair, beautiful foam art and of course that real Italian strength and flavour. All finalists for this category will be required to attend a barista-off at Portioli Head Offices, Glasgow. Date TBC.

Best Team

For that team that really goes the extra mile and work together like no other.

Best Wine List

This category is for those Italian wine selections that perfectly compliment your dish, making it an unforgettable meal.

Best Family Restaurant

This award aims to highlight (and thank!) the most family friendly eatery in Scotland.

Best Marketing Team

This award celebrates great engagement with customers, be it in print, online or through social media.

Best Restaurant

The big one! This award looks to celebrate all of the above and reward those who can bring it all together with finesse time and time again.

Best Trattoria (NEW)

This new category aims to celebrate those more informal venues that cater for casual nights out; focusing on good food and great company.

Best Pizzeria

Our judges are looking for a truly authentic venue that evokes the iconic Italian eatery. Finalists will be asked to show their full prep and baking process.

Best Gelateria

To many, Scotland’s ice cream parlors are the only real rival to the Italian originals; this category will award both truly unique flavors and classic recipes.

Best Deli/Café

We’re looking for the best takeaway or sit in delicatessen; selling everything from the perfect panini and sweet treats to gorgeous deli cuts and original Italian produce.

Best Fish & Chips Shop

The award for those venues that take Scottish fish & tatties and give them a unique Italian spin.

Best Italian Business

This award is for any Scottish based business that is led with an Italian head & heart! Not limited to the hospitality industry this category welcomes all nominations.