food and drink – Page 30 – The NEN

Revealed: The world’s 10 favourite comfort foods

New data from HelloFresh Ireland has unveiled the world’s top 10 comfort foods
Chocolate chip cookies, lasagne and mac and cheese take the top spots
Culinary expert reveals what makes foods comforting and recommends recipes to try this winter

As the weather gets chillier and evenings darker, many of us are making ourselves cosy and cooking up our favourite comfort foods. It’s no surprise then, that the demand for comfort food rises each winter, with a 19% increase in Google searches last month in Ireland and a 8% increase in TikTok searches.

But which comforting recipes are people turning to?

New data from HelloFresh Ireland has uncovered the world’s top 10 favourite comfort foods. Using a comprehensive analysis of Reddit and Google data, the foods that have been found to bring the most solace are:

World’s Favourite Comfort Foods

Chocolate Chip Cookies
Lasagne
Mac and Cheese
Mashed Potatoes
Brownie
Guacamole
Pizza
Cornbread
Chicken Noodle Soup
Chocolate Cake

Head of Culinary at HelloFresh Ireland, Hannah Duxbury, who specialises in designing recipes with mass appeal, discusses why she believes these foods are favoured: “Comfort foods often have a nostalgic or emotional connection to our past. They provide a sense of familiarity and security, triggering positive feelings.

“The top 10 foods identified in this study are rich in flavours, textures, and often associated with happy memories, making them irresistible choices for people seeking comfort in a plate. At HelloFresh Ireland, we find that many hearty Irish recipes are among our most popular for similar reasons.”

Carbohydrates stimulate the production of serotonin, which is associated with mood regulation and a sense of well-being. The consumption of hearty carbs can lead to a temporary increase in serotonin levels, contributing to feelings of comfort and happiness. What’s more, the satisfying and filling nature of carb dishes also provides a physical feeling of fullness and contentment, further enhancing their appeal as comfort foods.

Hannah has also provided recipes that she recommends turning to for comfort:

Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup

“The warm broth of this soup is hydrating, while the chicken and vegetables provide a blend of flavours that can be both familiar and nourishing.”

Sausages with Spinach Colcannon

“Mashed potatoes are the world’s fourth favourite comfort food and rightly so. They’re a good source of carbohydrates, which we know can boost serotonin levels. Add spinach for extra nutrients and turn into colcannon for the ultimate Irish nostalgia meal.”

Mexican Style Cheesy Beef Hash with Freshly Made Guacamole

“Guacamole is another great comfort food because not only is it rich and creamy, but avocado’s superfood properties mean it’s packed with mood-boosting nutrients. Serve with cheesy crispy potatoes in a Mexican hash for even more comfort.”

More comfort food recipes can be found at HelloFresh Ireland’s recipe hub.

Pasta and Pizza: The Hangover Heroes, says doctor

Medical advisor, Dr Rashid Bani of Orange County CBD has just dropped a bombshell on traditional hangover cures. Forget the bland toast and black coffee; the real heroes for battling post-party blues are none other than the beloved duo: pasta and pizza!

The Hangover Conundrum:

Hangovers are more than just dehydration. They’re a complex cocktail of electrolyte imbalance, blood sugar fluctuations, and sleep disturbances, all thanks to our friend, alcohol. The symptoms? Headaches, nausea, and a feeling akin to being trampled by a herd of elephants.

Enter the Carb Crusaders: Pasta and Pizza

Now, here’s the twist in the tale. While you’ve probably been advised to stick to light, easy-to-digest foods, hearty carbohydrates found in pasta and pizza can be surprisingly effective in combating hangover symptoms. Let’s break it down:

Carb Power

Pasta: It’s not just comfort food; it’s a science-backed energy restorer. Pasta slowly replenishes your blood sugar levels, helping to banish that hangover lethargy.

Pizza: More than just a midnight snack, the crust delivers a much-needed blood sugar boost. Opt for healthier toppings to add nutritional value.

Secret Hydration

That tomato sauce isn’t just delicious – it’s also helping rehydrate your body, a key to hangover recovery.

Electrolyte Magic:

Cheese and tomatoes are more than toppings; they’re a powerhouse of sodium and potassium, vital for restoring electrolyte balance.

Mood Lifter:

Comfort foods have a psychological effect. A slice of pizza or a bowl of pasta might be the hug your serotonin levels need.

The Full Recovery Package: It’s Not Just About Food

While pasta and pizza can be surprisingly effective, they’re part of a broader hangover recovery strategy:

Hydration Station: Water is your best friend. Rehydrate to help your body bounce back.

Snooze to Soothe: Give your body the rest it needs to heal.

Move a Little: Light exercise can elevate your mood and energy.

Avoid More Alcohol: It only postpones the hangover.

Dr. Rashid Bani of Orange County CBD says: “In a surprising twist to hangover recovery, pasta and pizza emerge as unlikely yet effective heroes.

“So next time you find yourself battling the aftermath of a night out, remember this doctor’s advice: a slice of pizza and a bowl of pasta might just be your best allies.”

Keep festive traditions alive: Four in five Scots plan to enjoy steak pie as part of Hogmanay celebrations

Scots united in their love of a Hogmanay steak pie

Seven in ten (69%) Edinburgh locals say steak pie is an important part of their Hogmanay and New Year’s Day traditions, with 80% planning to tuck into the dish this year.

A Make It Scotch survey of 1,000 Scots has ignited a debate about when steak pie should be enjoyed and what to drink with it.

Scots are divided about when to eat steak pie

While traditionally eaten on New Year’s Day, the Make It Scotch survey has found a third (34%) prefer to eat it on Hogmanay to kick start the celebrations with friends and family (21%), as a meal before a big night out (7%) or enjoy it on their own (6%) before the bells. The research found that two-thirds (66%) of Scots plan on keeping tradition and will enjoy their steak pie on the first day of the year.

IRN-BRU is the nation’s favourite steak pie accompaniment

While Scots are united in their love of the traditional steak pie, some are washing it down with a more modern accompaniment. Beloved Scottish beverage IRN-BRU came out on top as the drink of choice to enjoy with a steak pie for nearly a quarter (22%) of Scots – rising to a whopping 41% of those in Stirling.

IRN-BRU overtakes Scotland’s national drink – a dram of Scotch whisky

Scots planning on eating steak pie to welcome in 2024 are as likely to wash it down with a dram of Scotch whisky (9.5%) as they are a glass of fizz from the continent – with 1 in 10 Scots saying they prefer to enjoy the dish with a glass of champagne or prosecco (9.2%).

Gordon Newlands, Scotch Butchers Club Manager, said: “With many of us reimagining how we celebrate the festive season, it’s heartening to see that some classic Scottish traditions haven’t been broken.

“For the majority of Scots, our research has shown steak pie is an important part of Hogmanay and New Year’s Day celebrations. Enjoying some Scotch Beef steak pie can remind us of fond memories of feasting with friends and family and remains a great way to welcome in the new year, whether on our own or with those we love.

“Whether you’re buying a pie from your local butchers or you fancy trying to make it yourself from scratch, looking out for the Scotch logos and opting for Scotch Beef will ensure you’re plating up the best quality pie to welcome in 2024.”

Regional splits across Scotland

While most Scots are united in their fondness for traditional steak pie, this new research has also revealed some interesting regional variations across the country.

When asked if steak pie was an important part of their Hogmanay or New Year’s Day traditions, 84% of Glaswegians agreed versus just 59% of people living in Inverness.

While 71% of people living in Perth prefer to eat their steak pie as part of a New Year’s Day feast with friends or family, just 37% of Aberdonians say this is their preferred way to enjoy the dish with as many as 1 in 4 (25%) preferring to enjoy it on their own either before or after the bells.

Glaswegians are more likely than those living in other cities to say they prefer to eat their steak pie before drinking on Hogmanay (10%). In comparison, Aberdonians are more likely to eat it as a New Year’s Day hangover cure (8%) than those living in other Scottish cities.

When pairing a drink with their steak pie, the beverage of choice in Glasgow is beer (26%), whereas those in Perth were more likely than any other Scottish city to prefer to pair their steak pie with a glass of champagne or prosecco (21%) and Scotch whisky is most popular in Inverness (12%).

Make It Scotch

For those seeking high-quality, local produce to make steak pie this festive period, Scotch Beef will have the ideal cut to suit. The Scotch Beef logo indicates that products are locally sourced from selected Scottish farms that adopt best practices, including animal welfare and production methods, as well as supporting Scotland’s rural communities.

For budget-friendly recipes to inspire your festive feasting, visit www.makeitscotch.com and @makeitscotch on Instagram.

Aldi to strengthen its Scottish portfolio with £56m investment over the next two years

New stores set to open in Broughty Ferry, Straiton and Castle Douglas in 2024, with Aldi’s investment leading to 500 new jobs

Aldi has confirmed it will continue its expansion in Scotland, with plans to invest more than £56m over the next two years, opening three new stores in Broughty Ferry, Straiton and Castle Douglas next year.

The move supports the discount retailer’s growth ambitions and will allow it to meet consumer demands for outstanding quality and the lowest value in Scotland.

In 2023, Aldi became Scotland’s third-biggest supermarket by volume, moving it ahead of Morrisons and Sainsbury’s for the first time. According to recently published Kantar data, Aldi’s share of the grocery market had increased from 9.7% in November 2022 to 10.6% in November 2023[1].

Aldi has soared in popularity in recent years and welcomed more customers than ever before through its doors, with an additional 5 million customers this year.

In addition to the new stores in 2024, the supermarket has also committed to extend five of its existing stores, including Erskine, Port Glasgow and Alexandria over the next two years.

Having been crowned Employer of the Year at the Scotland Food and Drinks Excellence Awards 2023, the investment will see Aldi increase its employees in Scotland by over 10% in 2024.

Aldi also recently committed to a New Year pay rise, making it the first supermarket in the UK to offer rates in line with the Real Living Wage. It will also guarantee store and warehouse colleagues pay of at least £12 an hour.

Richard Holloway, Regional Managing Director for Aldi Scotland, said: “2023 was another excellent year for Aldi Scotland, and I am extremely proud that our presence within the Scottish market has continued to be recognised and celebrated.

“We remain committed to the strong relationships we have built with our Scottish suppliers, allowing our customers the opportunity to purchase locally sourced, high-quality Scottish products at affordable prices.

“As we look to the new year, we remain committed to reaching more customers than ever before, with the opening of more stores and increased investment in Scotland. Next year will be extra special for us as we mark 30 years since we opened our first store in Scotland on Glencairn Street in Kilmarnock.

“Whether it’s enhancing our product offerings, maintaining the lowest prices, supporting our dedicated teams, or contributing to the communities we serve – every investment is a testament to our unwavering commitment to Scotland.”

Aldi was commended for its selection of quality, locally sourced Scottish produce in 2023. Its Toradh Scottish Seville Orange Gin was awarded Gold by The Spirits Business’ Gin Masters blind tasting, while its Specially Selected All Butter Shortbread Rounds won Gold in the Christmas Category at the Quality Food Awards.

Known for its longstanding commitment to supporting community initiatives, Aldi’s Scottish Sports Fund, which has donated nearly £400,000 to amateur sports clubs to date, will continue in 2024. The retailer’s popular Supermarket Sweep initiative will also return for its ninth year. More than £10,000 was donated to Scottish foodbanks through the initiative in 2023.

In November, Aldi announced a new partnership with Age Scotland, encouraging shoppers to submit festive greetings to help combat loneliness amongst the elderly this winter.

‘Pints’ of wine stocked on Britain’s shelves for the first time ever

‘Pint’ size wine stocked on Britain’s shelves for the first time ever thanks to new freedoms from leaving the European Union
Still and sparkling wine to be sold in 200ml, 500ml and 568ml ‘pint’ sizes in 2024
900 British vineyards set to benefit across the country from new freedoms

UK tipplers will soon be able to purchase ‘pint’ sized bottles of still and sparkling wine, as a new 568ml size is introduced to Britain’s supermarket shelves, pubs, clubs and restaurants, the Department for Business and Trade has announced today (27th December).

The move to introduce the 568ml size would sit alongside the 200ml and 500ml measures already available, offering more flexibility and choice for customers.

The UK’s wine sector is set for the boost as part of the Government’s smarter regulation programme to ensure regulations are up to date and agile,. The move comes following engagement with the industry, with businesses now being able to sell prepacked still and sparkling wine in 500ml and 200ml sizes as well as a new 568ml ‘pint’ quantity.

900 vineyards are set to benefit from the new freedoms, boosting production and supporting British businesses, which currently produce around 12.2 million bottles of still or sparkling wine a year*.

These optional reforms from Government are thanks to our new Brexit freedoms via the Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Act 2023 and are wholeheartedly backed by industry wanting to reduce burdensome regulations.

The changes will help to boost innovation, increase business freedoms and improve choice for consumers.

Minister for Enterprise, Markets and Small Business Kevin Hollinrake said: “Innovation, freedom and choice – that’s what today’s announcement gives to producers and consumers alike.

“Our exit from the EU was all about moments just like this, where we can seize new opportunities and provide a real boost to our great British wineries and further growing the economy.”

Nicola Bates, CEO of WineGB said: “We welcome the chance to be able to harmonise still and sparkling bottle sizes and we are happy to raise a glass to the greater choice that allows UK producers for domestic sales.

“The Windsor Framework also means that newly packaged wine will be able to be sold by bars, restaurants and retailers in Northern Ireland – with products able to move in what is known as the retail “Green Lane”, under the Northern Ireland Retail Movement Scheme.”

In addition to announcing the deregulatory measure on wine, the Government has published a response to the consultation Choice on units of measurement: markings and sales. Following the extensive consultation, the Government has decided not to introduce any new legislation in this area. But new guidance has been issued to promote awareness and use of imperial measurements.

The Government will continue to keep this legislative framework under consideration, as part of a wider review of metrology EU derived legislation.

400 Hospitality businesses & workers sign plea to Humzah Yousaf to save Scottish hospitality

Over 400 hospitality businesses and workers have signed an open letter to the First Minister Humza Yousaf urging the First Minister to save Scottish hospitality.
The letter to the First Minister warns that Scottish hospitality faces a crisis and without new support at the Scottish Budget, many Scottish hospitality businesses will struggle to survive.
The letter comes a week before the Scottish Budget, with the Scottish Government under pressure from the hospitality sector to match support provided by the UK Government for hospitality businesses in England.

More than 400 hospitality businesses and workers have signed an open letter to the First Minister Humza Yousaf, urging him to save Scottish hospitality. Those signing the letter include some of Scotland’s best-loved and most recognisable bars, pubs, restaurants and hotels.

The letter comes a week before the Scottish Budget, with the Scottish Government under pressure from the hospitality industry to match support provided by the UK Government for hospitality businesses in England. At the Autumn Statement, the UK Government announced 75% business rates relief for hospitality businesses in England for the next year.

The Scottish Hospitality Group’s Save Scottish Hospitality campaign has warned that without new support, many Scottish hospitality businesses will struggle to survive.

The open letter to the First Minister has attracted support from the owners and employees of pubs, bars, restaurants and hotels across Scotland. The letter warns: “without support from the Scottish Government at the Scottish Budget, we will see our much-loved local hospitality venues disappear forever.” It makes an urgent plea to the First Minister to intervene and deliver fresh support for the hospitality sector at next week’s Scottish Budget.

The Save Scottish Hospitality campaign calls on the Scottish Government to use the Scottish Budget to provide emergency support for the hospitality industry to survive, and a new long-term deal to support the sector to thrive.

The campaign calls for:

an emergency 75% business rates relief to match the support that hospitality businesses in England & Wales have received over the last year;
creation of a new hospitality category for business rates, which would recognise the unique challenges faced by hospitality and ensure that rates don’t cripple hospitality businesses;
a new partnership between the hospitality industry and government to develop a plan to grow Scotland’s much-loved hospitality industry and address the challenges it faces.

Stephen Montgomery, Director of the Scottish Hospitality Group, said: “This letter is an urgent plea from hospitality owners and workers from the length and breadth of Scotland.

“The First Minister must listen to those on the frontline of our hospitality sector and deliver support to save our hospitality sector before many of the venues we love disappear forever.

“We need to back our hospitality industry to survive and thrive, and a fairer deal on business rates would be one step the Government can take in the Budget to give our hospitality industry a fighting chance. If it can be done for hospitality businesses in England, then it can be done for Scottish hospitality too”.

“The Scottish Government claims it wants a new relationship with the business community. It’s time to put their money where their mouth is.”

The Scottish Hospitality Group represents many of Scotland’s best-loved, family and independently-owned hospitality businesses – from bars, pubs, and cafes to restaurants and hotels.

The Group was recently relaunched with an expanded membership, in every area of Scotland and collectively employing more than 6,000 people.

Save-Scottish-Hospitality-An-Open-Letter-to-the-First-Minister Download

Le Petit Beefbar introduces their ‘Naughty or Nice’ cocktails

Le Petit Beefbar adds ‘Naughty or Nice’ Christmas cocktails to their drinks menu

Throughout December, the restaurant will dish up some festive favourites alongside exclusive meats on their renowned menu

Le Petit Beefbar is making a list that diners will want to check twice, with a new menu of festive cocktails, both naughty and nice. Edinburgh’s glamorous new steak destination is inviting guests for a sip of mischief and dash of Christmas cheer with these new cocktails, perfect for those both on Santa’s naughty and nice list.

Crafted by the restaurant’s expert mixologists, get ready to jingle your taste buds with Le Petit Beefar’s “Naughty or Nice” festive concoctions. For those who proudly sit on the naughty list, Le Petit Beefbar presents ‘The Spicy Santa’, a margarita with a mischievous twist featuring Tequila, Amara Montenegro, lime, agave syrup, and a pinch of chilli for an extra cheeky kick.

Also meet ‘The Grinch’ – a green sensation with Midori taking the lead as the main ingredient, joined by white rum, lime, and lemonade for a truly sweet and sour experience.

For those on Santa’s 2023 nice list, Le Petit Beefbar delivers a trove of cocktails that are set to send you rocking around the Christmas tree. Behold the ‘Polar Espresso Martini’, a spin on the beloved Espresso Martini, with notes of mandarin liqueur, crème de cacao, Kahlúa, orange juice, chocolate bitters, and a shot of espresso for that memorable kick.

And that’s not all, the enchanting creation, ‘White Christmas’, that features vodka, Kahlúa, raspberry cream, and a dash of homemade white chocolate liqueur – a real treat for Santa’s favourites.

For diners looking for lunch or dinner while doing their Christmas shopping, the restaurant has added some special festive dishes to their menu for the month of December. Don’t limit yourself to just one Christmas dinner this month, indulge in the free-range turkey, complemented by Kobe karasumi mash, sprouts, butternut squash, and drizzled with Beefbar’s delicious sauce. For a delightful dessert, savor the creamy vanilla cheesecake with a hazelnut crust and fresh pear—a perfect way to finish any meal.

For Hogmanay, it’s out with the old and in with the delicious as Le Petit Beefbar delivers a curated menu for those looking to ring in the new year with style. As the clock approaches midnight, guests can indulge in a sophisticated dinner, choosing between street food inspired options like Kobe Beef Jamon, Baby Quesadillas, or Signature Bao Buns.

Alternatively, guests can opt for the iconic Beefbar classics, deciding over the Paradise Pepper Fillet or the mouthwatering Miyazaki Wagyu Striploin. These dishes can also be accompanied by Le Petit Beefbar’s irresistible sides, comprising hand-cut fries with parmesan & black truffle to their signature mash. Each guest will also receive a glass of Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut Champagne on arrival, adding a touch of class to the celebrations.

Le Petit Beefbar General Manager, Jean-Francois Greyer said: “We wanted to spread some festive cheer in true Le Petit Beefbar fashion, which is why we have introduced our ‘Naughty or Nice’ cocktails.

“For those looking for a bit of mischief this festive period, we present ‘The Spicy Santa’ and ‘The Grinch’ and for those that are in merit of a treat, we present ‘The Polar Espresso Martini’ and ‘White Christmas’. These cocktails add a cheeky twist this festive season, inviting our guests to add a bit of flavourful fun to their Christmas celebrations.

“We have also curated a Hogmanay themed menu for those looking to bring in the new year at Edinburgh’s most sophisticated steak restaurant, enjoying a selection of delicious dishes paired with a glass of champagne to bring in the bells with style”.

Aldi gives all Colleagues in Edinburgh & The Lothians New Year pay rise

Aldi store colleagues in Edinburgh & The Lothians are to get a pay rise, which will see Aldi become the first supermarket in the UK to guarantee store and warehouse colleagues pay of at least £12 an hour.

This move makes Aldi the first supermarket to offer rates in line with the Real Living Wage that was set by the Living Wage Foundation in October this year.

Store Assistants’ pay will rise further to £12.95 nationally, and £13.85 within the M25, based on the length of service as part of Aldi’s £67m investment into colleague pay.

Aldi is also the only supermarket to offer paid breaks, which for the average store colleague is worth an additional £900 annually.

Giles Hurley, Chief Executive Officer of Aldi UK and Ireland, said: “Just as we promise to provide the best value to our customers, we are also committed to being the highest-paying supermarket within the sector – which is why we are investing more than ever into this pay rise.

“We are incredibly proud of every single member of Team Aldi and this is a way of thanking them for all their hard work over the past year. We believe our colleagues are the best in the sector and they play a huge part in making Aldi what it is today.”

The news comes in just as Aldi has been named the UK’s Cheapest Supermarket, according to consumer champion Which? (November 2023). Aldi was also named the UK’s Cheapest Supermarket in both 2021 and 2022.

Aldi’s commitment to being the cheapest supermarket shows no sign of slowing, having made over £360m of price reductions across 800 items so far this year.

Aldi is the UK’s fourth-largest supermarket and has more than 1,000 stores, 11 regional distribution centres and 40,000 colleagues across Britain.

How people in Edinburgh can get FREE mince pies this Saturday

Members of the UK’s leading vegan charity, Viva!, will be handing out free mince pies at Royal Mile (High Street) in Edinburgh this Saturday (9 December), as part of their latest Christmas campaign.

Staff and volunteers will be speaking to members of the public to encourage them to opt for a vegan Christmas this year, which campaigners say is the only way for Christmas to be truly cruelty-free.

Every year in the UK, millions of turkeys are slaughtered for human consumption during the festive period. In addition to the turkeys who lose their lives, large numbers of pigs, salmon and other animals are killed just so that Brits can eat them. Viva! is taking to the streets to educate people that delicious vegan alternatives exist, so that no animals have to die this festive season.

As well as handing out free mince pies, the team will be showing footage from Viva!’s undercover investigations that expose the reality of factory farming, as well as handing out leaflets and guides to help people transition to a vegan lifestyle.

In addition to the event in Edinburgh on 8 December between 12 and 4pm, the team will also be taking this Christmas campaign toCardiff, Queen Street (3 – 7pm, 14 December 2023).

Speaking of the upcoming Christmas tour, Viva!’s managing director, Laura Hellwig, said: “Every year, millions of animals are killed just so humans can eat them for Christmas dinner.

“These animals typically live short, unhappy lives in cramped conditions on factory farms. Given that Christmas is a time for love and compassion, it doesn’t feel right that this sentiment isn’t extended to the animals we share the planet with!

“Viva! is encouraging people to choose kindness this Christmas by opting for plant-based alternatives to animal products. These vegan alternatives not only spare animals from suffering or death but they’re also better for the planet, as animal agriculture is a leading cause of the climate emergency.

“You can try out some delicious vegan festive recipes at viva.org.uk/xmas.”

To find out more and get involved, head to Viva!’s website.

Edinburgh’s Divino is triple winner at Scottish Italian Awards

This year’s Scottish Italian Awards saw one Edinburgh restaurant standing above the rest as Divino Enoteca became a triple winner, receiving accolades for ‘Scotland’s Best Wine Selection’, ‘Scotland’s Best Pasta Chef’, and ‘Scotland’s Best Chef’, alongside a ‘Highly Recommended’ commendation for Best Restaurant in the East.

The 10^th anniversary of the Scottish Italian Awards welcomed over 750 guests to the Double Tree in Glasgow on 26^th November for an evening celebrating the best of the Italian hospitality community, who have all made an incredible impact on Scotland’s food scene.

Divino flew the flag for Edinburgh well through the evening, as the sole winners from the capital city. The awards cap off a successful year for the restaurant, with milestones including visits from Prince Albert of Monaco and actor Gerard Butler, following a £100,000 renovation at the end of 2022.

Tucked away on Merchant Street in Edinburgh’s Old Town, Divino is known for its high-quality food that provides a modern and creative take on Italian cuisine. Seasonal menus, with dishes ranging from fresh pastas with silky sauces to succulent braised meats. are imagined by Chef Andrea Calistro – honoured with awards for ‘Scotland’s Best Chef’ and ‘Best Pasta Chef’.

The award for Best Wine Selection reflects Divino’s dedication to curating an impressive assortment of world wines, with regular wine tasting evenings and a unique ‘enomatic’ machine allowing guests to sample rare wines from the bottle.

Vittoria Group’s other celebrated restaurants were also honoured in the awards, with Vittoria on the Bridge also ‘Highly Recommended’ for Best Restaurant East, and Bertie’s Proper Fish & Chips ‘Highly Recommended’ for the Best Fish and Chips Award.

Co-owner Alberto Crolla was delighted with the awards recognition, saying: “While we strive for excellence each day of the year, awards like this are a testament to the team’s dedication to providing an incredible experience for each customer that visits our restaurant.

“This hat-trick of award wins makes a wonderful ending to an exciting year at Divino that began with a freshly unveiled restaurant and saw a myriad of exciting events like regionally themed nights and celebrity guests that keep our team energised to keep up the remarkable work they’re doing.”

The Crolla family have been at the forefront of Italian hospitality in the capital since Vittoria on the Walk first opened in Leith more than 50 years ago.

Now three generations of the family have expanded the Vittoria group across the city, each offering something unique while honouring the traditions of great Italian hospitality.

For more information on Divino, visit https://divinoedinburgh.com