Amid all the uncertainty and disruption caused by Covid-19, we got some lovely news at the end of September.
Restaurant Hjem has been shortlisted in the category of Newcomer at the prestigious Catey Awards 2020, which pride themselves of “representing British hospitality at its best”.
First held in 1984, the Awards have a long-held reputation for celebrating and signposting the cream of the UK’s hospitality sector, with previous winners including Raymond Blanc, Gordon Ramsey, Heston Blumenthal, Tom Kerridge and Brian Turner.
Hjem manager, Ally, said: “We were thrilled to get this lovely news and the whole team are delighted.
“The Cateys are known as a benchmark of excellence throughout the hospitality industry and so it’s a real honour to have made the shortlist in what is always an exciting category.”
The finalists for the 2020 event were selected following a series of virtual judging sessions involving hundreds of the industry’s finest operators. The finalists will be celebrated and the winners revealed at a digital ceremony in November.
Restaurant Hjem will line up alongside Brat, London; Cornerstone, London; The Fordwich Arms, Kent; and The Little Chartroom, Edinburgh in the Newcomer category.
Editor of The Caterer magazine, James Stagg said: "The 2020 Cateys recognise the most talented individuals, the biggest brands and strongest performers in the hospitality industry.
"There will be some changes to the way we celebrate them this year… but The Caterer is determined that the industry continues to have the opportunity to applaud its finest and celebrate excellence.”
Ally said: “As well as being delighted to have Restaurant Hjem in the national spotlight, it’s also always a thrill to be banging the drum for Northumberland - shining a light on amazing produce and suppliers we’re so lucky to have on our doorstep.
“We’re very proud of what we’ve achieved so far and being recognised by The Cateys is really special for us. We’re very much looking forward to the ceremony in November – even though we’ll have to enjoy it from the comfort of our own Hjem!”