Uno Momento, in Darlington, was awarded the ‘Best Italian Restaurant in the North’ as part of The Food Awards England, which awards the best of the best in the business across 23 packed categories.
The annual awards praise talent, dedication, and passion displayed by restaurants, chefs, eateries and suppliers across England at a glitzy ceremony in Birmingham, which the restaurant attended last month (November 17).
Restaurant manager James Frankland, from Darlington, said this is the third time the popular restaurant has been a recipient of this award, previously winning in 2022 and 2023.
The manager said winning the award makes all the hard work feel worth it.
Restaurant manager James Frankland (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)
He said: “Getting recognition like this makes it feel like it’s worth what we do.
“The team work so hard all year round, and receiving an award like this makes me feel like it’s all worth it.
“Our restaurant is the oldest Italian restaurant in Darlington, and I think it’s because we have reasonable prices and good quality food.
“We do the basics that people love, and make sure we do them well.
“We have built such a loyal customer base over the years, and we are always trying to improve and go above and beyond to provide our customers with the best possible experience.”
Since winning, the restaurant took to social media to share their news and has since been inundated with support from the community.
Their post said: “Our restaurant has officially been awarded Best Italian establishment in the North — a recognition that means the world to us.
“A massive thank you to our incredible team for their passion and hard work, and to our loyal customers whose support made this possible.
“Here’s to authentic flavours, warm hospitality, and many more unforgettable meals together. Grazie mille!”
In response, one commenter said: “One of my favourite restaurants, huge congratulations!”
While another person said: “Staff are amazing and never had a bad meal!”
Another commenter said that they loved to bring their family to the restaurant.
They said: “Congratulations, very deserved. As a family we love dining there!”
The 26-year-old manager added: “After winning we’ve had so many customers coming up to us saying ‘you deserve this award and support’.
“It’s been so nice to see that not only did we win it, but people are also agreeing that we deserved it, which is a big deal.”
Dining and Cooking