The Manchester Food and Drink Festival Awards ceremony was recently held at New Century, where the finest restaurants, bars, and individuals in the city’s hospitality industry were honoured. This esteemed event presented awards in 18 categories, ranging from Restaurant of the Year to the new Takeaway of the Year accolade. The awards brought together over 350 people, recognising various food and drink businesses across Greater Manchester, with a special focus on the individuals pivotal to the industry’s success.
The MFDF Awards shortlist was expertly curated by the judging panel, composed of acclaimed food and drink critics and writers. Following this, the public also had the opportunity to cast their votes for their favourite hospitality establishments. The combination of these scores, alongside the results of covert shopping visits, determined the final winners in each category. Notable highlights of the night included Higher Ground being crowned Newcomer of the Year, Fat Pat’s clinching the Food Trader of the Year title, and Erst taking home the prestigious Restaurant of the Year Award.
Festival Director of Manchester Food and Drink Festival Awards, Alexa Stratton-Powell expressed delight in announcing the 2023 MFDF Awards winners. She highlighted the significance of celebrating the city’s independent restaurants, bars, and cafés, particularly during these challenging times for the hospitality industry. Stratton-Powell extended gratitude towards the MFDF judges, sponsors, voters, and New Century for hosting a memorable and gratifying event.
In the Plant Based Offering of the Year category, Bundobust on Oxford Street triumphed over other deserving nominees. Burgerism in Salford secured the top spot in the Takeaway of the Year category, while Track Brewing Co in Manchester was recognized as the Independent Drinks Producer of the Year. Pollen Bakery, situated in Ancoats and Kampus, emerged victorious while representing the Food and Drink Retailer of the Year category.
Grapefruit Coffee in Sale was awarded the esteemed title of Coffee Shop of the Year, while the Affordable Eats Venue of the Year accolade was bestowed upon Ornella’s Kitchen in Denton. Cork of the North in Stockport was celebrated as the Food and Drink Retailer of the Year. Additionally, Platt Fields Market Garden in Fallowfield received the Pop-up or Project of the Year award, signifying their exceptional contribution to the culinary landscape.
The thrilling awards ceremony also acknowledged The Marble Arch as the Bar of the Year, with Stretford Canteen and Hawksmoor in Deansgate being recognized as Neighbourhood Venue of the Year and Premium Venue of the Year, respectively. Noteworthy individuals also received accolades, with Shaun Moffat of The Edinburgh Castle Pub being named as Pub Personality of the Year and Erst in Ancoats awarded the prestigious Restaurant of the Year Award.
A significant recognition at the event was The Howard and Ruth Award for Outstanding Achievement, presented to James Campbell, owner of Sureshot Brewery – a prominent figure in Manchester’s craft beer industry. His substantial contributions to the hospitality industry in the region were acknowledged and celebrated during the ceremony.
In conclusion, the Manchester Food and Drink Festival Awards succeeded in highlighting the exceptional establishments and individuals that shape the city’s vibrant culinary scene. The event not only celebrated the resilience and creativity of the hospitality industry but also emphasized the significance of supporting local businesses in these challenging times. Congratulations to the remarkable winners and nominees who continue to elevate Greater Manchester’s food and drink landscape!
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