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This brand new award recognises an individual who consistently goes above and beyond in the food and drink industry, exemplifying excellence in their role. This person demonstrates outstanding dedication, work ethic, and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Whether in the kitchen, front-of-house, or behind the scenes, they play a vital role in enhancing team morale, operational efficiency, and the overall success of the business.

In no more than 1000 words please provide:

• Examples of how the individual has excelled 
• Testimonials and feedback which the individual has received from customers, guests and colleagues 
• Information on any additional accolades the individual has received 

This is an exciting brand new category for 2025 and celebrates the fantastic restaurants across Scotland loved by locals. The shortlisted businesses will then be put to the public vote in The Scotsman and through the website to determine our winner for 2025.

Provide detail on what makes your favourite local restaurant stand out from others in the area.

New for 2025, this award honours hotel-based restaurants. These establishments not only draw in local customers but also entice visitors from both nearby and distant locations with their delectable menu, diverse drink selection, and excellent customer service.

In no more than 1000 words please provide:

• Description of the restaurant, location and history
• Overview of the restaurant's highlights and achievements
• Description of the restaurant’s menu
• The impact the restaurant has had on the sector, employees, the wider community
• What makes the restaurant stand out
• Supporting testimonials

This award celebrates a cocktail bar that exemplifies excellence in the art of mixology, atmosphere, and guest experience. The winner will demonstrate a commitment to innovation, creativity, and mastery in crafting exceptional cocktails, using high-quality ingredients and showcasing a well-curated selection of spirits. Judges will also evaluate the bar’s ambiance, service, and ability to create a welcoming environment that enhances the overall customer experience.

In no more than 1000 word please provide

• Examples of creativity and innovative techniques that sets the business apart from competitors
• Feedback and testimonials from customers and guests
• Details of any collaboration with local distilleries, breweries, or artisans which supports the community
• Examples of unique storytelling behind the cocktails or the menu

This award acknowledges and celebrates an authentic Scottish pub that stands out for its exceptional atmosphere, quality drinks, and welcoming service. This venue combines great hospitality with a vibrant setting, offering a diverse selection of beverages and creating an unforgettable experience for customers, making it a standout in the community.

In no more than 1000 words please provide:

• Description of the pub’s location and history (eg when established, how by, how it has evolved)
• Description of the pub’s menu and use of Scottish produce
• Overview of the pub’s highlights and achievements
• The impact the pub has had on the sector, employees, the wider community
• What makes the pub stand out
• Future plans
• Supporting testimonials

This award will be presented to an organisation or individual that puts sustainability and the environment at the heart of its business.

In no more than 1000 words, describe the company’s commitment to:

• Ensuring its environmental impact is kept to an absolute minimum, for example through recycling, carbon offset, water conservation or sustainable energy schemes.
• Sustainability achievements in the last 12 months
• Sustainability aims for next 12 months
• How the organisation is helping to drive wider progress in the green economy
• How the organisation goes above and beyond what it has do to meet regulatory requirements
• Demonstrate business growth and financial success whilst delivering social and environmental benefits
• Summary of sustainability plan/strategy

Indulge in opulent gastronomy and impeccable service with our Best Fine Dining Experience award. This prestigious accolade celebrates establishments that elevate dining to an art form, showcasing culinary mastery, luxurious ambiance, and an unforgettable journey for the senses.

In no more than 1000 words please provide:

• Testimonials and feedback from guests 
• Evidence of any additional accolades or awards received 
• What sets you apart from your competitors

This award will be presented to a chef who has shown inspiration and a desire to bring their restaurant/project to the next level and is at the heart and soul of that success.

In no more than 1000 words please provide:

• Description of the individual and career history
• Overview of their career highlights and achievements
• The impact they have had on their business or sector, on their peers, employees, the wider community
• What makes them stand out and deserve this award
• Supporting testimonials

This award recognises restaurants that provide cuisine of an excellent standard, as well as demonstrating innovation and providing a high level of hospitality.

In no more than 1000 words please provide:

• Description of the restaurant, location and history
• Overview of the restaurant's highlights and achievements
• Description of the restaurant’s menu
• Use of Scottish produce
• The impact the restaurant has had on the sector, employees, the wider community
• What makes the restaurant stand out
• Future plans
• Supporting testimonials

This award will go to an establishment that is off the beaten track but gained popularity once found.  We're looking for somewhere that defines Hidden Gem on all levels. 

In no more than 1000 words please provide:

• Description of the business 
• Overview of why they describe themselves as a hidden gem
• How they gained popularity
• The impact they have had on the wider community
• Future plans
• Supporting testimonials

This brand new category for 2025 celebrates the young or up-and-coming chefs of Scotland who have something truly special. Judges want to see creativity, talent and heaps of potential, whether it’s cooking in fine-dining establishments or for their own street food business.

In no more than 1000 words please provide:

• Ways in which the individual has made an impact on the food & drink scene in their area
• Testimonials and feedback on showcasing how the individual continues flourish 
• Examples of growth 

This brand new award honours a street food vendor or stall that delivers exceptional flavours, creativity, and quality in every bite. From bold flavours to outstanding presentation, the winning vendor embodies the spirit of street food, delivering great taste and value that leaves customers coming back for more.

In no more than 1000 words please provide:

• Description of how the entry has evolved
• Description of the entry's menu and use of produce
• Overview of the entry's highlights and achievements
• What makes the entry stand out
• Future plans
• Supporting testimonials

This award is for the individual or establishment which has made their dreams a reality - recognising the hard work and passion that goes into opening a business.

In no more than 1000 words please provide:

• Description of the individual / business they have established within 2024
• Overview of the highlights and achievements so far
• The impact they have had on their business or sector, on their peers, employees, the wider community
• Future plans
• Supporting testimonials

This award recognises spirit (non whisky) that has been created successfully within Scotland and enjoyed by the public.

In no more than 1000 words please provide:

• Detail of what the product is and its individuality
• Marketing campaigns
• Target consumers (domestic, and export of applicable)
• Price Point
• Details of the use of Scottish produce

This award recognises the vast offering of whisky available in Scotland and those who go above and beyond to be the best.

In no more that 1000 words please provide:

• Detail of what the product is and its individuality
• Is it blended scotch; blended malt; single malt or single grain?
• Does it have an age statement? If so, what age is it?
• Marketing campaigns
• Target consumers (domestic and international)
• Price Point

This special award will be given to an individual who has shown commitment to their field, sector, industry or business.

In no more than 1000 words, please provide:

• Description of the individual and career history
• Overview of their career highlights and achievements
• The impact they have had on their business or sector, on their peers, employees, the wider community
• Supporting testimonials