Midlands Food Drink & Hospitality Awards 2026

Nominations are now closed.

MFDHA Nomination Form 2026

Please fill out the form to nominate yourself or somebody else for this year's Midlands Food Drink & Hospitality Awards.

"*" indicates required fields

Your Information

Please fill this section about yourself.

Is this nomination application for yourself or somebody else?**

Yourself

Somebody Else

Your Name*

First Last

Your Email*

Your Contact Number*

Your Instagram Handle

Nominee Information

Please fill out your nomination details accurately as this information will be used to process the application

Nominee Name*

Please enter the full name of the person you are nominating

First Last

Nominee Phone*

Please enter a valid contact number, this will be used to contact the nominee during the process.

Age of Establishment*

How long has the business/person been established for?

Nominee Email*

Please enter a valid email, this will be used to contact the nominee during the process.

Name of Business / organisation (nominee)*

Please enter the name of the Business or organisation you are nominating

Award Category*

Please select one category

Where is this Business/Organisation located?

Please enter the town/city where this business/organisation is located

What is the Business/Organisation postcode?

Please enter the postcode of this business/organisation

1. Describe your afternoon tea offering. (Max 300 words)

Hint: Tell us about the quality and creativity of your menu – include examples of your food and drink options, attention to presentation, and any themed or seasonal afternoon teas you offer. What makes your afternoon tea experience stand out from others?

2. How do you create an exceptional guest experience? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Share how your venue’s ambience, décor, and customer service contribute to a memorable experience. Mention how you uphold traditional elements of afternoon tea while adding your own unique twist. Include any guest feedback or repeat customer insights that demonstrate consistency and satisfaction.

3. How do you incorporate local, seasonal or innovative ingredients into your offering? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Explain your approach to sourcing ingredients – do you work with local suppliers or change your menu seasonally? Highlight any innovative food or drink items that elevate your afternoon tea experience.

1. How do you lead and motivate your team to deliver excellent service? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Share examples of how you create a positive work culture, support staff development, and maintain high service standards. Mention any training initiatives, staff recognition, or team-building efforts you’ve led.

2. What impact have you made on the business through your management? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe how you’ve contributed to the venue’s success – this could include improved guest satisfaction, operational efficiency, sales growth, or positive changes in staff retention and morale.

3. How have you responded to challenges or introduced innovations in your role? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Provide examples of any new ideas, changes, or solutions you've implemented – whether operational, customer-focused, or team-related. How did your leadership help the business adapt or thrive in difficult circumstances?

1. What makes your hotel unique and distinctive? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe the overall look, feel, and concept of your hotel. Share how your décor, design, branding, or theme creates a memorable experience. What sets you apart from chain or larger hotels?

2. How do you deliver a personalised and exceptional guest experience? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Highlight your approach to customer service, staff interaction, amenities, and attention to detail. Include examples of how you tailor stays to individual guests and use guest feedback to improve or evolve the experience.

3. How do you connect with your local area or community? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Tell us about any collaborations with local businesses, use of local products, or ways your hotel reflects the culture or heritage of the area. Mention any events, partnerships, or sustainability practices that link your hotel to the community.

1. Tell us your story — what drives your brewery or distillery and sets you apart? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Share your background, ethos, and passion. Explain what makes your brand and products distinctive, from your craft techniques and ingredients to your overall identity and mission.

2. How do you demonstrate quality, creativity, and innovation in your products? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe your approach to flavour, recipe development, and production methods. Include any standout or experimental products, awards, or techniques that showcase your innovation and consistency.

3. How do you engage with your community and promote sustainability? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Share examples of how you support local initiatives, collaborate with other businesses, or reduce your environmental impact. Mention community events, ethical sourcing, eco-friendly packaging, or any green initiatives you’ve introduced.

1. What makes your casual dining experience stand out? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe your menu style, atmosphere, and service approach. What sets you apart in terms of flavour, presentation, and guest experience? Mention any signature dishes, special features, or themed nights.

2. How do you deliver consistent quality and value for your guests? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Share how you maintain high standards in food, service, and cleanliness. Talk about your pricing strategy, portion sizes, staff training, and how you gather and respond to customer feedback to keep standards high.

3. How do you connect with your community and adapt to trends? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Provide examples of using local produce, supporting neighbourhood initiatives, or offering seasonal menus. Mention any sustainable practices, menu innovations, or marketing strategies that help you stay relevant and customer-focused.

1. Tell us about your culinary journey and what drives your passion as a chef. (Max 300 words)

Hint: Share how you started, key experiences that shaped your approach to food, and what continues to inspire you. Mention any standout moments in your career or milestones you’re proud of.

2. How have you influenced your kitchen, team, and menu? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe your leadership style, how you develop your team, and how your creativity shapes the menu. Include examples of signature dishes, seasonal creations, or new ideas that have made an impact.

3. How do you balance innovation, consistency, and sustainability in your cooking? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Talk about your approach to sourcing ingredients, maintaining high standards, and evolving your menu. Mention any sustainable practices, feedback from guests, or awards and recognition you’ve received.

1. What makes your cocktail bar stand out from the rest? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe your venue’s atmosphere, style, and overall customer experience. Include how design, music, service, and layout come together to create a memorable vibe for guests.

2. Tell us about your cocktail menu and the creativity behind it. (Max 300 words)

Hint: Highlight your approach to balancing classic and original cocktails, the use of premium or unique ingredients, and how your mixology team contributes to innovation and presentation.

3. How do you ensure consistent quality and strong customer satisfaction? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Share how your team is trained, how you gather and respond to customer feedback, and how you maintain high standards in service and drink quality. Include any standout reviews or customer reactions.

1. What makes your Desi bar & grill experience unique? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe the overall vibe of your venue — from your food and drinks offer to the music, interior design, and service style. What makes your place stand out from others in the Desi dining scene?

2. Tell us about your food and drink offerings. (Max 300 words)

Hint: Highlight your signature dishes, grilled specialities, spice blends, and drinks menu. Talk about your approach to authenticity, creativity, and consistency in flavour and presentation.

3. How do you maintain high standards and build customer loyalty? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Share how you ensure quality across service, food, and atmosphere. Mention any customer feedback, community engagement, or repeat business that reflects your strong following.

1. What makes your dessert parlour unique and memorable? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe your concept, ambience, and what sets you apart — from your décor and customer experience to how your venue appeals to dessert lovers of all ages. Mention anything that makes you a go-to destination.

2. Tell us about your dessert menu and what makes it special. (Max 300 words)

Hint: Highlight your range of desserts, signature items, flavour combinations, and presentation. Mention how you use quality ingredients, cater to dietary preferences, or introduce new trends and seasonal creations.

3. How do you maintain high standards and connect with your customers? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Share how you ensure cleanliness, consistency, and excellent service. Mention how you build customer loyalty, encourage reviews, and use social media to engage your audience.

1. How is sustainability embedded in your business operations and culture? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe your overall sustainability approach — from your mission and team values to how decisions are made. Show how sustainability is a core part of your business, not just a marketing tool.

2. What specific actions have you taken to reduce your environmental impact? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Share examples such as local or ethical sourcing, energy-saving initiatives, reducing food miles, cutting waste, composting, or using sustainable packaging. Include any measurable outcomes if available.

3. How are you driving change in the wider community or industry? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Highlight collaborations, community projects, supplier influence, or any public education or advocacy work. Mention how your sustainability efforts inspire others or contribute to a larger movement in food and hospitality.

1. What defines your fine dining experience and culinary philosophy? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Share your restaurant’s vision — from the cooking style and ingredient sourcing to your values around creativity, presentation, and guest expectations. Mention any influences, themes, or standout elements that shape your approach.

2. How do you and your team deliver a consistently exceptional guest journey? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe the role of your kitchen and front-of-house teams in creating a seamless experience. Include examples of staff training, service rituals, menu explanations, or wine pairings that elevate the overall experience.

3. What steps do you take to innovate and maintain excellence throughout the year? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Explain how you adapt seasonally, update your menu, or introduce new techniques while maintaining consistency. Mention guest feedback, any awards or critical acclaim, and how you strive for continued improvement.

1. What makes your festival stand out and deliver an unforgettable experience? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe the overall vision and atmosphere of your event. Highlight the range of food and drink on offer, the audience experience, entertainment, and any standout features that make your festival unique.

2. How do you support local producers and celebrate diverse food cultures? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Share how you select vendors, involve small or independent producers, and represent a broad mix of cuisines and communities. Include examples of partnerships, cultural programming, or initiatives that promote inclusivity.

3. What impact has your festival made, and how do you measure its success? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Mention attendance numbers, visitor feedback, press or social media coverage, and community engagement. Highlight any innovations in your event delivery, sustainability practices, or marketing reach.

1. What makes your gastro pub experience stand out? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe the atmosphere of your pub and how you blend a welcoming setting with high-quality food and drink. Mention any unique touches that differentiate your venue from others in the sector.

2. Tell us about your food and drink offer. (Max 300 words)

Hint: Highlight your approach to menu development, including use of fresh, seasonal ingredients, local sourcing, and signature dishes. Share how your drinks selection complements your food and enhances the guest experience.

3. How do your team and service contribute to guest satisfaction and loyalty? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Explain how your kitchen and front-of-house teams work together to provide consistent service. Include examples of training, communication, or customer feedback that show the strength of your team and the loyalty of your guests.

1. How have you demonstrated leadership and shaped a strong team culture? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Share your approach to managing and motivating your team. Include examples of how you’ve built morale, improved communication, encouraged staff development, or enhanced retention.

2. What strategic decisions or operational improvements have you led? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Highlight changes you’ve introduced that improved efficiency, customer experience, or profitability. Include innovations in processes, systems, or guest service that reflect your commercial and strategic thinking.

3. What impact have you made on business performance and guest satisfaction? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Describe the results of your leadership. Include metrics such as revenue growth, improved reviews, team stability, or recognition received under your management. Show how your contribution has helped the business thrive.

1. What makes your hotel bar a destination in its own right? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe the atmosphere, décor, and overall vibe of your bar. Explain how it complements your hotel’s brand while standing out as an attractive venue for both residents and non-residents.

2. Tell us about your drinks offer and customer experience. (Max 300 words)

Hint: Highlight your cocktail menu, drinks curation, and any seasonal or signature serves. Share how your team delivers exceptional service and creates a memorable guest experience.

3. How does your bar contribute to the hotel’s success and reputation? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Share examples of how your bar enhances the overall guest journey, supports the hotel’s image, and helps generate additional footfall or revenue. Mention any guest feedback, return visits, or local following.

1. What sets your hotel apart in delivering an exceptional guest experience? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe your approach to service, cleanliness, comfort, and attention to detail. Highlight how you meet diverse guest needs through amenities, accessibility, and personalised touches.

2. How do your team and operations contribute to quality, consistency, and guest satisfaction? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Share how your staff are trained and empowered to provide professional, high-standard service. Mention any initiatives, feedback systems, or service innovations that help maintain excellence.

3. How do you go beyond the basics — in sustainability, community involvement, or improvements? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Provide examples such as eco-friendly practices, partnerships with local organisations, refurbishments, or guest-focused innovations. Highlight how these efforts enhance both guest experience and long-term value.

1. What makes your coffee shop stand out from the rest? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Share your shop’s personality and ethos — from your coffee offering and house blend to your ambience, décor, and customer experience. Mention anything that creates a loyal following or sets you apart from chains.

2. Tell us about your coffee, your team, and your service approach. (Max 300 words)

Hint: Highlight your use of quality beans, brewing methods, supplier partnerships (e.g. local roasters), and team training. Describe how you create a welcoming, consistent experience through friendly and knowledgeable service.

3. How do you engage with your local community and act ethically? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Provide examples of community events, collaborations, ethical sourcing, sustainability practices, or support for local causes. Show how your shop contributes to the wider community beyond the cup.

1. How do you create an authentic and memorable Italian dining experience? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe your menu, atmosphere, and service style. Share how your restaurant reflects Italian culture — through traditional recipes, regional specialities, or modern interpretations. Mention the role of music, décor, or hospitality in setting the scene.

2. Tell us about the quality and sourcing of your ingredients. (Max 300 words)

Hint: Explain how you maintain high standards in flavour and freshness. Include any use of Italian imports, local producers, or seasonal ingredients that enhance the authenticity and quality of your food.

3. How do you engage with your customers and community? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Highlight your guest service approach, loyalty, and feedback. Share any awards, press features, or customer testimonials that reflect your reputation and connection with your diners.

1. What makes your East Asian restaurant experience unique? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe your culinary identity and the inspiration behind your menu. Whether you specialise in one cuisine or a fusion of East Asian styles, highlight your restaurant’s concept, atmosphere, and what sets it apart.

2. Tell us about your approach to food quality, authenticity, and presentation. (Max 300 words)

Hint: Share how you source ingredients, develop dishes, and maintain consistency. Include any signature items, modern twists, or traditional preparation methods that reflect your culinary ethos.

3. How do you deliver a great customer experience and engage with your community? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Explain how your team ensures warm, attentive service and how you respond to guest feedback. Mention any cultural events, collaborations, or community initiatives that reflect your broader impact.

1. Tell us about your journey in the food, drink, or hospitality industry so far. (Max 300 words)

Hint: Share how you started, what inspired you, and any key moments, challenges, or turning points. Include your current role and the impact you've made in your team or business.

2. How have you demonstrated passion, initiative, and innovation in your role? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Provide specific examples where you’ve gone above and beyond — from improving a process or launching a new idea, to delivering great service or contributing to team morale. Mention any creative or leadership efforts you've led or supported.

3. What support, mentorship, or development have you been involved in? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Highlight any mentoring you’ve received or offered to others, training or learning opportunities you’ve embraced, and how these experiences have shaped your growth. Testimonials from managers or colleagues can strengthen this part of your entry.

1. What makes your South Asian dining experience authentic and memorable? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe the atmosphere, cultural elements, and service style. Share how your restaurant brings South Asian heritage to life — through décor, music, hospitality, or guest experience.

2. Tell us about your food — from signature dishes to culinary techniques. (Max 300 words)

Hint: Highlight your menu variety, use of spices, traditional cooking methods, or innovative interpretations. Mention any standout or regional dishes that reflect your culinary roots or creativity.

3. How do you engage with your customers and community? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Include examples of community involvement, cultural celebrations, local partnerships, or loyalty from regular diners. Mention any awards, customer testimonials, or online reviews that support your reputation.

1. What sets your steakhouse apart in terms of food, service, and atmosphere? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe the dining experience, including your venue’s ambience, customer service, and how your team creates a memorable, welcoming environment for guests.

2. Tell us about your approach to meat selection, preparation, and menu variety. (Max 300 words)

Hint: Share how you source quality meats, your cooking techniques, and how you cater to different preferences (e.g., cuts, doneness, dietary needs). Highlight any signature dishes or creative twists.

3. How do you enhance the overall guest experience through drinks and service? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Include details on wine or cocktail pairings, staff knowledge, and how your team maintains high standards of hospitality. Mention how you respond to guest feedback and build customer loyalty.

1. Tell us your street food story — what’s your concept, and what inspired it? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Share how you started, your food philosophy, and what makes your offering unique. Describe your signature dishes, style of cuisine, and the personality behind your brand.

2. How do you maintain quality, creativity, and consistency in a mobile setting? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Explain how you manage cooking standards, ingredients, and service in varying locations or conditions. Highlight your approach to presentation, innovation, and customer experience on the go.

3. How do you connect with your customers and contribute to the community? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Include examples of how you use social media, attend events, build a loyal following, or support local causes. Share any standout feedback, repeat business, or collaborations that reflect your local impact.

1. What makes your pub a great example of the classic British pub experience? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe the look and feel of your pub — from décor and ambience to your approach to hospitality. Share how you preserve traditional elements while appealing to today’s customers.

2. Tell us about your food and drink offer. (Max 300 words)

Hint: Highlight your range of cask ales, beers, wines, and classic pub dishes. Mention any signature items, seasonal menus, or supplier relationships that contribute to quality and consistency.

3. How do you build community spirit and ensure excellent service? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Provide examples of local engagement, events, or partnerships. Share how your team creates a welcoming atmosphere and responds to guest feedback. Mention any customer loyalty or standout reviews.

1. What makes your vegetarian or vegan dining experience stand out? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe the overall concept and feel of your venue — from your menu focus and presentation to the atmosphere and service. Share what sets you apart in the plant-based dining scene.

2. Tell us about your menu and approach to creativity, nutrition, and appeal. (Max 300 words)

Hint: Highlight how you design your menu — from bold flavours and original dishes to balance, nutrition, and variety. Mention seasonal updates, customer favourites, or options for different dietary needs.

3. How do you promote sustainability and inspire guests through your offer? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Share how you source ingredients, reduce waste, or use eco-friendly packaging. Describe how your team educates or inspires customers — whether they’re plant-based regulars or curious newcomers.

1. What makes your venue exceptional in terms of design, service, and atmosphere? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe the style and layout of your space, the guest experience you aim to create, and how your team contributes to a warm, professional atmosphere. Mention how your venue appeals to a wide range of customers or clients.

2. How do you deliver memorable events or experiences for your guests? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Share how you manage different types of events or functions, from private dining to weddings or corporate hires. Include examples of versatility, standout service, or unique features that enhance the guest experience.

3. What achievements or partnerships have helped position your venue as a destination of choice? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Highlight successful collaborations, awards, press coverage, or community involvement. Share any innovations, new offerings, or customer feedback that show your venue’s growing impact and reputation.

1. What makes you stand out as a front-of-house team member? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe your approach to customer service — how you create a warm, welcoming atmosphere and make guests feel valued. Mention any consistent praise you’ve received from customers or colleagues.

2. Share an example of a time you went above and beyond for a guest or your team. (Max 300 words)

Hint: Tell a story that shows your professionalism, initiative, and attention to detail. It could be a moment of problem-solving, supporting a colleague, or delivering an exceptional guest experience.

3. How have you contributed to improving service standards or guest satisfaction? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Include any feedback you've received, training you’ve undertaken, or ideas you've implemented. Highlight moments where your efforts helped build customer loyalty or improved the team’s performance.

1. Tell us about your role and how you contribute to the smooth running of the business. (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe your day-to-day responsibilities and how your reliability, attention to detail, or efficiency keeps operations running behind the scenes. Mention how your work supports the wider team or improves the customer experience.

2. Share an example where your commitment or attitude made a real difference. (Max 300 words)

Hint: Give a specific example — perhaps stepping up during a busy period, solving a problem, or being a steady presence over time. Highlight how you show pride in your work and support your colleagues.

3. How have you shown dedication, teamwork, or long-standing service? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Talk about your approach to working with others, your reliability, or any training or recognition you’ve received. Testimonials from managers or team members can strengthen your nomination.

1. Tell us about your journey and continued impact in the hospitality industry. (Max 300 words)

Hint: Share how long you've worked in the industry, the roles you've held, and key milestones. Highlight how your experience, consistency, and passion have made a lasting difference to your business or wider sector.

2. How have you demonstrated innovation, leadership, or mentorship in your role? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Provide examples of how you’ve led by example, introduced new ideas, supported colleagues, or mentored others. Highlight how you inspire those around you and contribute to raising standards across the industry.

3. Why do you believe you’re a respected ambassador for local hospitality? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Share how you represent the values of the industry — professionalism, passion, respect, and dedication. Include any peer recognition, community involvement, or guest feedback that reflects your standing and reputation.

1. What makes your Indo-Persian dining experience unique and authentic? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe your menu concept, key influences, and how you blend Indo-Persian traditions through food, service, and décor. Highlight the atmosphere and cultural touches that create a memorable guest experience.

2. Tell us about your food — from signature dishes to creativity and presentation. (Max 300 words)

Hint: Share how you balance authenticity with innovation. Talk about the depth of your menu, use of spices, ingredient sourcing, and how your dishes are presented to delight both the eyes and palate.

3. How do you engage with your community and build a strong reputation? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Include examples of local engagement, customer loyalty, cultural events, or collaborations. Highlight positive guest feedback, repeat visitors, and any press or online recognition that reinforces your impact.

1. What makes your quick service restaurant stand out? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Describe your concept, food and drink offer, and overall customer experience. Share what sets you apart — from signature items and speed of service to your venue’s vibe, branding, or unique appeal. Mention any themed offerings, menu innovations, or standout features that attract repeat customers.

2. How do you deliver consistent quality, value, and efficiency? (Max 300 words)

Hint: Explain how you maintain high standards in food preparation, hygiene, and customer service. Include examples of portion control, pricing strategy, staff training, or systems that help you serve quickly without compromising quality. Share any feedback or reviews that reflect your consistency and value.

3. How do you ensure speed and accuracy in a high-volume environment? (Max 250 words)

Hint: Share how your team manages busy periods, order fulfilment, and customer flow. Mention any systems, technology, or training that help you maintain speed without compromising quality or service.

Achievements

Please enter the achievements (academic or professional) of the person or business you are nominating

Additional Information

Please enter any additional information, which could help your nomination to be shortlisted

Nominee Instagram Handle

Nominee LinkedIn Handle

Nominee X Handle

Nominee Facebook Page

Upload Nominee's Headshot Photo for Public Announcement

Important: This headshot photo will be used to publicly announce the nominee across social media, marketing materials, and on-screen content at the awards ceremony. It must be well-presented and suitable for public display.

Please upload a clear, well-lit photo of the nominee, facing the camera and centred in the frame. The image should show them from the waist up, with their face clearly visible.

Minimum size: 500×500 pixels

See the example photo below for guidance.

Upload Nominee Organisation Logo for Public Announcement

Important: Please upload the logo of the organisation you’ve nominated. This will be used to publicly announce the nominee across social media, marketing materials, and on-screen content at the awards ceremony.

Upload a clear, high-resolution logo.

Minimum size: 500×500 pixels

See the example photo below for guidance.

Upload a Nominee Photo

Max. file size: 12 MB.

This field is hidden when viewing the form

Keep in touch*

We and our sponsors would like to keep you up to date with the latest news regarding nominees and the awards. If you'd prefer not to hear from us you can unsubscribe at any time.

Yes keep me up to date

No I don't want to receive further updates