A LAKE District restaurant has been recognised at an annual competition that celebrates the best of Italian hospitality across the UK.

San Pietro in Windermere was selected as the finalist for the 2024 Italian Awards in two categories - Best Restaurant in the North West and Best Wine Selection. 

Among the finalists for the award's eighth edition are dozens of restaurants including those from Liverpool, Chester and Manchester.

The Italian Awards aims to recognise excellence and pick out the very best restaurants in categories from Best Pizzeria to Best Barista.

Wine selection in San PietroWine selection in San Pietro (Image: Submitted) Owner Jason Turner, who has operated the business since 2018, said he and his team are 'really chuffed' about being the finalists in two categories in the Italian Awards.

But being recognised for the restaurant's wine selection was the cherry on the cake.

"We have got one of the best wines. We have got something for everyone," said Mr Turner.

"We have wines you would not expect in San Pietro. It is something that differentiates us from most places locally."

Staff at San PietroStaff at San Pietro (Image: Submitted)

He said the restaurant has a great atmosphere and they are like a 'family'.

"We work so hard as a team and me and my wife. We grow this restaurant year by year," he added.

San Pietro was also selected as the finalist for the 2023 Italian Awards for the category of Best Restaurant in the North West.

The licensed Italian restaurant, located on Birch Street, offers a selection of the country's cuisine from pasta to meat and fish dishes. 

Husband and wife duo Jason and Yui Turner Husband and wife duo Jason and Yui Turner (Image: Submitted)

The Italian Awards give initial voting power to the general public allowing the award to generate finalists who truly are the nation's favourites, battling it out to become the best of the best.

The restaurants that make it to the finals will be visited by the awards panel of independent judges and scored. The winner will be crowned at their final gala.

For more information about the Italian Awards visit their website here.