This year saw our very first Cotswold Eats awards, something we decided to do a little differently. Most awards focus on lots of specific categories, but we find that can be restricting when so many of the food and drinks businesses could fall under multiple categories, or one category could be filled with tons of nominees and another could have very few.
So while nominees were listed under a specific category, such as 'Cafe' or Pub Restaurant' or any other, they are simply awarded as part of the Top 10 Places or Top 10 Producers based on overall votes.
These Top 10 winners are entirely based on public vote, with thousands of total votes cast by you all. So without further delay, let's get into the second reveal...
Kempsford
A traditional local pub with friendly service and classic food. They have frequent 'burger and a pint' offers and steak nights, as well as garden parties and community events.
Their great local following is a testament to their quality.
Malmesbury
Whatley Manor is a Hotel & Spa with a big focus on food. Their main Dining Room serves a gastronomic tasting menu, complete with sommelier wine pairing. This is accompanied by Grey's Brasserie offering a more relaxed and casual dining experience, as well as their Green Room which hosts food and drink events.
Fairford
The Bull Hotel has had many owners of the years, but has found a new lease of life thanks to the team behind The Five Alls in Filkins.
Superb renovations, local produce and a hearty British menu have placed it firmly into the must visit Cotswold pub restaurants.
Eastleach
A traditional Cotswolds pub in a traditional Cotswolds village. The Victoria Inn offers classic country food, a roaring fire and a warm welcome.
They are a dog friendly pub, so an excellent lunch spot after a weekend walk.
Lechlade
Khushi is an Indian restaurant in Lechlade, serving quality food at reasonable prices. It's a great place for a group get together or a big family meal.
They have banquet night every Wednesday evening and a buffet every Sunday lunch, perfect for when you're really hungry.
Stroud
Based within Bisley House in Stroud, Toni's Kitchen was founded earlier this year by the owners of Fat Toni's Pizza (part of our Top 10 Producers for 2018). It has quickly established itself within the town for its refined and delicious Italian food.
They have a focus on serving seasonal and inclusive food, including a 5 course vegan menu!
Cirencester
Tierra & Mar (translating to Land & Sea) was founded by Brett and Silvia in 2017, with the idea to combine their English and Spanish backgrounds in both name and menu.
It has quickly become a Cirencester favourite, with food ranging from tapas and paella to Mediterranean twists on the classic Sunday lunch.
Fairford
A staple of Fairford since Lizzie and Simon opened the doors in 2004, 7a Coffee Shop is a family run cafe offering a great panini lunch, delicious hot drinks, but most importantly... their world famous 7a brownies.
We can't quite describe how good the brownies are, although we tried in our first Cotswold Eats article.
Multiple Locations
Famed for their breakfast and lunch, Lynwood & Co has quickly expanded from their original Lechlade premises, opening cafes in Fairford and Burford as well.
Working exclusively with local and independent producers, they strive for a community spirit and good honest food, which explains their loyal following for all 3 locations.
Wotton-under-Edge
Your Top Place of 2018 is... The Falcon Steakhouse in Wotton-under-Edge! Situated in a small premises, but not small on portions, they serve steaks ranging from 7oz sirloin all the way up to 50oz rump. Pair this with classic sides, speciality burgers and a great atmosphere and you have a winning combination.
They source the majority of their meat from their own family farm, less than 10 miles from the restaurant. This local approach makes this the quintessential Cotswold Eats Awards winner.
Congratulations to all the Cotswold Eats Awards Top 10 Places and to all the businesses who were nominated. Plus a big thank you to everyone who voted in the awards.
Don't forget to check out the Top 10 Producers and keep an eye on our website over the coming months for in-depth articles and more.
