The UK Italian Awards 2026 are in March and Welsh eateries are in the running to be crowned best in Wales
Scaramantica Pizzeria is just one of the Welsh finalists(Image: WalesOnline)
An Italian dinner out – there’s nothing better and we all have our preferred spots around Wales for that perfect bowl of pasta or pizza. Now, the finalists for the 2026 UK Italian Awards’ Best Restaurant in Wales have been announced from all over the country and one will go on to be crowned Wales’ number one at a posh ceremony in London on March 30.
As well as the 12 shortlisted for the country’s top Italian dining spot, Welsh restaurants have also recieved nominations for best pizzeria, best front of house, best pasta restaurant, best tiramisu and best caffe.
Now, the judges of The UK Italian Awards will visit the finalists to narrow down their decision, deciding on the best in their eyes.
Amongst the shortlisted Best Restaurant in Wales are Cardiff city centre legend, Giovanni’s, which has seen its Park Place location nominated.
The capital scored two other entries via Grano on Caerphilly Road, a neighbourhood cafe by day that serves pizzas at night and also well-regarded pizza and cocktail bar, Penylan’s Scaramantica nabs a spot, too.
Elsewhere around Wales Il Gusto from Abergavenny, a family-run venue is a finalist and has also been shortlisted for best pizzeria. For the latest restaurant news and reviews, sign up to our food and drink newsletter here
Here is the full list of Welsh Italian restaurants shortlisted for best in the country:Bar Piazza, NewportBella Ciao, Port TalbotBelottis, CeredigionGiovanni’s in Park Place, CardiffGrano, CardiffIl Gusto, AbergavennyRossini’ s Italian, RhylRustica, MonmouthScaramantica Pizzeria, CardiffThe Anchor, SwanseaThe Gate, CwmbranTorna a Surriento, Bangor
Find out who claims the title on March 30.
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Dining and Cooking