The awards celebrate excellence in Italian food, drink, and hospitality across the country, with contenders recognised in categories ranging from pizza and pasta to desserts and family-friendly dining.
Warren Paul, awards director (Image: Dirt Comms)
Lanarkshire restaurants have been shortlisted in several categories, including best neighbourhood restaurant, best pizzeria, and best kitchen team.
Warren Paul, awards director, said: “We’re proud to help bring a spotlight to the people all over Scotland serving up really premium quality Italian food, drinks and hospitality.
“The standard seems to be higher every year as the best in the country compete for our coveted honours – and by having real customers voting and engaging, we ensure the best are actually recognised.
“We are proud so many of the Italian community in Scotland embrace our awards and their passion for the honours shows there is real trust for what we do.
“Thank you to everyone who has helped us compile this year’s finalists and I wish them all the best of luck as we move on to the judging stage, where every finalist will be visited by anonymous judges to ensure the real customer experience.”
Cotto Via in Wishaw has been nominated for Best Italian Neighbourhood Restaurant, Best Dessert Menu, and Best Kitchen Team.
Modo in Lanark is a finalist for Best Restaurant in the Central Belt and Best Pasta Chef.
La Piccola Fish & Chip’s Pizzeria in Bothwell has been shortlisted for Best Pizzeria and Best Pizza.
Quintilianis in Larkhall is also in the running for Best Fish and Chips and Best Pizza.
The Italian Awards aim to celebrate the businesses and individuals who bring authentic Italian cuisine and hospitality to Scottish communities.
Winners will be announced during a ceremony on November 29, 2026 at the DoubleTree by Hilton, Glasgow Central.
