FOUR businesses saw off stiff competition this week to win top food awards.

The next time you consider going out for a bite to eat in Gwent, you will be spoilt for choice.

Winners of The Food Awards Wales 2018 were announced this week in Cardiff to a room packed with more than 300 people.

The awards aim to recognise and reward the best of the Welsh food industry from those who produce the ingredients to those who serve them, including restaurants, takeaways, hotels, cafés and bistros amongst others.

Gemelli Restaurant took Best Italian Establishment award and co-owner, Pasquale Cinotti, said he was “very pleased”.

“It is great news,” he said.

“I was there on the night and it was amazing. It was lovely to see lots of people there.

“We did not know what would happen but when our name was called out we were very, very happy.”

Cafe/Bistro of the Year in South East award was handed to Abergavenny-based The Coffee Pot.

Co-owner Bryan Harris said he felt a mixture of “shock” and “happiness” at winning the award.

“We are a relatively new business,” said Mr Harris. “We have only been open for three years.

“It was very humbling and I would like to thank all those people who have been supporting us.”

Hotel Restaurant of the Year South East and Cookery School of the Year awards went to The Priory Hotel and Restaurant in Caerleon and Abergavenny Baker respectively.

Irfan Younis, who is CEO of Creative Oceanic which helped organise the awards, said: “We are very delighted to have welcomed such great finalists and winners at the Food Awards Wales 2018 and we are very happy to hear from our guests that everyone had a lovely night.

“These awards aimed to acknowledge and thank those representing the Welsh food industry, enhancing its reputation nationally and internationally and we are delighted to see that our vision has been accomplished.

“The fourth annual Food Awards Wales are a true reflection of the great restaurants and individuals serving the food industry."