Winner
Chosen by our judges:
Ember, Wellingborough, Northamptonshire
Shortlist
The top public vote-winners:
Ember, Wellingborough, Northamptonshire
The Carpenter’s Arms Italian Kitchen, Walesby, Nottinghamshire
Hitchen’s Barn, Oakham, Rutland
Mallories, Kirkby Mallory, Leicestershire
The winner is Ember – an exciting restaurant that cooks over open fire.
Why it won: Ember has quickly made a name for itself in the dining scene since opening in June 2022. Its unique open fire cooking, creative small plates, and atmospheric setting deliver exciting food, alongside a theatrical, enjoyable experience. Our judges loved the restaurant’s on-trend approach, with the open fire cooking adding a distinctive touch to each dish. Sitting at the kitchen table and chatting with the chefs during service was a memorable experience.
Inspired by owner James Peck’s travels, especially to Argentina, Ember’s menu showcases flavours from Scandinavian-style BBQs to Argentinian specialities.
Signature dishes:
- Smoked beef short rib with chimichurri
- Cod with harissa and preserved lemon
- Cauliflower with satay and lime
- Ember’s signature flatbreads with whipped butter
Despite being a relatively new player, Ember’s name has quickly spread. It was a finalist in our awards last year, was named ‘One to Watch’ at the Northamptonshire Food & Drink Awards 2023/24, and recently secured a spot on OpenTable’s Top 100 Restaurants in the UK.
Ember expanded in late 2023, adding No.13, a cocktail bar next door that offers an intimate and luxurious space for diners to enjoy expertly crafted drinks.
The other finalists
The Carpenter’s Arms Italian Kitchen, Walesby, Nottinghamshire
The Carpenter’s Arms Italian Kitchen in Walesby offers superb cooking and service. Our judges raved about the porchetta and focaccia, calling it “the best focaccia we’ve had in a very long time” and highlighting the “very friendly and attentive service”.
Opened in 2022 by John Boddice, Christian Colarieti, and John’s wife Louise, the restaurant is passionate about delivering authentic Italian dining.
The kitchen’s skill shines through, using local and seasonal ingredients, much of it grown in their own kitchen garden. With everything made in-house, including charcuterie and desserts, The Carpenter’s Arms provides an unforgettable Italian dining experience in north Nottinghamshire.
Hitchen’s Barn, Oakham, Rutland
Hitchen’s Barn is a former GFC Restaurant of the Year that needs no introduction.
Consistently awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand and a member of the Good Food Guide’s list of Britain’s 100 Best Local Restaurants, our judges were impressed by its “beautiful setting, excellent service and incredible flavours.”
Hitchen’s Barn continues to impress with its commitment to seasonal cooking and locally sourced ingredients.
Head chef Neil’s passion for British countryside cuisine is reflected in the ever-changing menu, featuring standout dishes like braised shoulder of local venison and fillet of Cornish cod. This Oakham restaurant combines culinary excellence with warm, convivial service in a charming rural setting.
Mallories, Kirkby Mallory, Leicestershire
Mallories is a family-owned bar, restaurant and hotel, run by Ian and Julie, is housed in a beautifully refurbished 1790s building in Kirkby Mallory.
Our judges noted the “good food” and “very stylish, nicely decorated restaurant.” Head chef Josh Harper and his team create a regularly updated menu featuring British classics like cider-glazed pork belly, rump of lamb, and beer-battered fish and chips.
The well-stocked bar and well-trained staff complement the dining experience.
With nine beautifully decorated rooms available for overnight stays, Mallories offers a luxurious yet welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a weekend getaway or a memorable meal.
