We’re a little late to the party with this, but in case you’re like us and haven’t yet seen the rundown on the nominees for this year’s Oliver Awards, take a look at the highlights (in our opinion anyway) below:

• In the Best World category, several reputable restaurants are, in our humble opinion, worthy winners. Viva Cuba, Zaap, and My Thai are the nominees that jump out in a crowded category.
• The Best Lunch category is absolutely stacked (perhaps too stacked?) with entries. Notable nominees include Salvo’s Salumeria, Friends of Ham, and The Tetley, just a few of our favourites. Hopefully one of those will win over the likes of Wagamama.
• The Best Suburban category contains a few of our favourite suburban foodie haunts, namely Divino, The Mustard Pot, and Trattoria Il Forno.
• Dominating the Best Chef category will probably be Michael O’Hare for his Man Behind The Curtain venture, and it’s slightly odd that in that same category is the chef from the Olive Tree..!
• In Best Rural is a choice we may not necessarily agree with in the form of the Clarendon Hotel (read why here) alongside deserved nominees such as the Devonshire Arms. Interestingly, Shibden Mill Inn is shortlisted, which is good news for us as we’re off there in a couple of weeks to review their accommodation and dining offering!
• The Box Tree has to be a big contender in Best Fine Dining, whilst we hope a worthy nominee like No. 2 Oxford Place wins out in the Best Newcomer category over the likes of Byron Burgers.

There’s plenty of intrigue among the categories to keep us interested in this year’s Oliver Awards, so stay tuned for more news ahead of the awards evening in March!