Hospitality professionals, business leaders and industry champions came together on Monday (22.06.26) evening as the 9th Midlands Food, Drink & Hospitality Awards celebrated the very best of the region’s vibrant hospitality sector at The Eastside Rooms in Birmingham.
The evening was one of celebration, inspiration and unity, recognising the outstanding individuals and businesses that continue to deliver exceptional experiences despite one of the most challenging periods the hospitality industry has faced in recent years.
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award to Andreas Antona, a man whose influence on Birmingham and the Midlands hospitality scene is simply immeasurable.
Widely regarded as the “Godfather of Modern Birmingham Food,” Andreas has spent more than four decades transforming the region’s culinary reputation. Through his passion for excellence, unwavering commitment to quality and dedication to nurturing future generations of chefs, restaurateurs and hospitality professionals, he has helped place Birmingham firmly on the national and international gastronomic map.
The award carried even greater significance following Andreas’ recent announcement that the iconic Simpsons Restaurant will close after more than three remarkable decades. For many across the industry, the decision symbolises the immense pressures facing hospitality businesses today, making the recognition an emotional and fitting tribute to one of the sector’s true pioneers.
Throughout his career, Andreas has not only built award-winning restaurants but has mentored countless chefs and entrepreneurs who have gone on to shape the hospitality landscape themselves. His legacy extends far beyond the restaurants he created—it lives on through the people he inspired.
The awards served as a timely reminder that while the industry continues to navigate rising costs, recruitment challenges and changing consumer habits, its resilience, creativity and sense of community remain stronger than ever.
Speaking after the event, Ifraz Ahmed and Anita Chumber, Co-Founders of B Events, said:
“Hospitality has always been about bringing people together, and that is exactly what this evening achieved. The challenges facing our sector are real, but so too is the determination, passion and resilience of the incredible people who make this industry what it is.
Honouring Andreas Antona with the Lifetime Achievement Award was a privilege. His contribution to Birmingham and the Midlands cannot be overstated, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
More than anything, it was wonderful to see competitors become colleagues for one evening, putting business aside to celebrate one another’s success. Nights like these remind us why recognising people matters.”
The ceremony took place at The Eastside Rooms, which enjoyed double celebrations after also being crowned Venue of the Year, recognising its continued commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality experiences.
Guests were kept entertained throughout the evening by the energetic and charismatic host Phil Oldershaw, whose humour, warmth and infectious enthusiasm ensured the celebrations continued long into the evening.
The organisers extended heartfelt thanks to the event sponsors whose continued support makes the awards possible:
- Touchwood Solihull
- KSB Recruitment
- Elonex
- Bootcamp Media
- Le Jardin
- Alfresco Spaces
- Swallow Drinks
Special thanks were also given to the judging panel, partners, volunteers, production teams and supporting organisations whose collective efforts helped deliver another outstanding celebration for the Midlands hospitality community.
The organisers also acknowledged the incredible work of official charity partner The Burnt Chef Project, whose fundraising efforts throughout the evening raised over £3500 to continue supporting mental health awareness across the hospitality industry.
With finalists representing every corner of the Midlands, the evening showcased the remarkable diversity, innovation and talent that continues to define one of the UK’s strongest hospitality regions.
The Midlands Food, Drink & Hospitality Awards continue to provide a platform for recognising excellence, encouraging collaboration and championing an industry that plays such a vital role in the region’s economy and culture.
As another unforgettable evening came to a close, one message resonated throughout the room: despite the challenges ahead, the Midlands hospitality industry remains united, passionate and determined to continue raising the bar.
For one special night, businesses put competition aside, colleagues became friends, achievements were celebrated, and an entire industry stood together—reminding everyone why hospitality is, and always will be, about people.
To see all the official pics from the night visit: https://tinyurl.com/MFDHA26
2026 Winners
Afternoon Tea Establishment of the Year: Bazar
Back of House Employee of the Year: Reece Purewal – The Indian Brewery
Bar/Restaurant Manager of the Year: Gurveer Lally – Soho Tavern Hockley
Boutique Hotel of the Year: Peak Edge Hotel
Brewery/Distillery of the Year: Dhillons Brewery
Casual Dining Restaurant of the Year: Yakinori Solihull
Chef of the Year: Chef Suree Coates – Suree’s Kitchen
Cocktail Bar of the Year: Passing Fancies
Desi Bar & Grill of the Year: Soho Tavern – Hampton in Arden
Dessert Parlour of the Year: Little Dessert Shop – Lozells
East Asian Restaurant of the Year: KIBOU
Fine Dining Restaurant of the Year: Mallories
Food/Drink Festival of the Year: Colmore Food Festival
Front of House Employee of the Year: Danni Bird – Sky Bar and Restaurant
Gastro Pub of the Year: The Tap & Run
General Manager of the Year: Lauren McCormick – Mitchells & Butlers
Hospitality Personality of the Year: Alex Nicholson-Evans – City Curator
Hotel Bar of the Year: Alvar Bar – Clayton Hotel
Hotel of the Year: Clayton Hotel
Independent Coffee Shop of the Year: Medicine Bakery
Italian Restaurant of the Year: Leaven Pizza
People’s Choice: Soho Tavern – Hockley
Quick Service Restaurant: Plan Burrito
Rising Star of the Year: Bobby Bendle – Simpsons
Shining Star of the Year: Michelle Lewis
South Asian Restaurant of the Year: The Tiffin Box
Steak House of the Year: Cocina Restaurant
Street Food Operator of the Year: Lola the Cafe Boat
Themed/Entertainment Venue of the Year: F1 Arcade Birmingham
Traditional Pub of the Year: The Church Pub & Dining Room
Vegetarian or Vegan Restaurant of the Year: Pizza by Vinnie
Venue of the Year: The Eastside Rooms
Lifetime Achievement Award: Andreas Antona
