Hundreds of guests attended the glitzy ceremony at New Dock Hall last night, celebrating 15 years since we launched our Leeds food and drink awards.
Since the very first Oliver Awards ceremony in 2009, hundreds of businesses have been crowned with a coveted award - propelling some into the spotlight and recognising others for their long-serving dedication to the city’s food and drink industry.
Our panel of judges had the tough job of whittling this year's entries down to a shortlist, with the winners across 17 categories crowned last night, including the new Judges' Choice Award.
The ceremony was hosted by award-winning radio presenter Rich Williams and guests enjoyed a three-course menu designed by the 2023 Chef of the Year Craig Rogan. Thanks to our event sponsors ReFood UK, Chef Works, Fearns at Leeds Dock, Aphasia Support, the Royal Armouries, the Leeds Hotels and Venues Association and Dish Hospitality Recruitment.
Here is every Leeds business to have won an Oliver Award 2024.
13. Rising Star Award - Nicko Lachica (Herencia)
Finalists: Daljit Singh (Punjabi Heaven); Louis Taylor-Bolshaw (Forde); Nitin Sharma (Delhi Wala); Sandhiya Prasad (Munch Café); Shyamal Kumar (Aarti) | Nicko Lachica Photo: Nicko Lachica
14. Outstanding Contribution - Claire at the Moot Hall Arms
Finalists: Andrea Rossi (Gaucho); La Cantina44; Manjit Kaur (Manjit's Kitchen); Robbie Williamson (Fearns) | Submitted Photo: Submitted
15. Judges' Choice Award - Matt Healy (Forde)
New award for 2024 | James Hardisty/National World Photo: James Hardisty/National World
16. Best Fine Dining Experience - Craig Rogan at The Collective
Finalists: byMölly; Chef Jono at V&V; Hern; Hidden Harewood 2023 by the Harewood Food & Drink Project; Sushi Nakamura | National World Photo: National World
17. Chef of the Year - Ajith Kumar (Tharavadu)
Finalists: Chef Jono at V&V; Craig Rogan, The Collective; Kaoru Nakamura, Sushi Nakamura; Matt Healy, Forde; Molly Payne, byMölly; Rab Adams, Hern | National World Photo: National World