Food & Drink Awards: Your Suffolk and Cambs finalists revealed. . .

With public nominations for the 2025 Suffolk and Cambridgeshire Food & Drink Awards now closed, we can reveal your finalists - plus why you rate them - in both counties. . .

Tearoom/Coffee Shop of the Year
Suffolk: Sponsored by Haughley Park

Victor Victoria, Newmarket: “Perfect drinks, food and service every time. The vibes are the best and they are dog friendly too, which is brilliant! Can’t recommend highly enough.”

Midgar Coffee, Bury St Edmunds: “Midgar is the heart of the Bury community with a team of the most talented baristas. I always leave smiling and feeling like a valued customer.”

Maeve’s Tea Room, Woodbridge: “Coffee exceptional, food fantastic (and always changing) and staff always happy to see you. The best place to take time out.”

Cambridgeshire: Sponsored by Childerley

Fitzbillies, Cambridge: “Whichever branch you visit, you’re guaranteed a warm welcome, truly top-notch coffee and great food. And who could resist their Chelsea buns?”

Prosper, Ely: “This is the most delightful vegan coffee shop; the owners and staff are the friendliest, lovely people. It's also dog friendly and they hold events to support the community.”

The Village Green, Burwell: “A very friendly local coffee shop which has become the heart of our village. It is always full of happy customers of all ages. The coffee is exceptionally good!”

Pub/Bar of the Year
Suffolk: Sponsored by Thomas Ridley Foodservice

The Wine Cellar, Bury St Edmunds: “With 100 wines on its list, 90 of them available by the glass, The Wine Cellar also has a lovely atmosphere; we always feel welcomed.”

The Bildeston Crown: “With its pretty village location, ancient beamed bar and solid drinks list, The Crown is the perfect pub - and Greig Young’s food takes it to another level.”

The White Horse Inn, Badwell Ash: “Winner of a Tripadvisor Traveller’s Choice Award, this place nurtures its regulars as well as welcoming new faces. The food is also fantastic!”

Cambridgeshire: Sponsored by Thomas Ridley Foodservice

Northstowe Tap & Social: “Cool place with loads of nice beers! Bringing a community together in the countryside, it’s an all-round great venue.”

The Snug, St Ives: “It’s the smallest pub in the county, but has a deservedly big reputation. The cocktail menu - it hosts classes too - is worth a visit alone.”

Byron’s Bear, Cambridge: “It’s only just opened, but Byron’s Bear has already become a regular haunt for us. Great location, great atmosphere, great food and drink - what else is there?”

Food Producer of the Year
Suffolk: Sponsored by Suffolk Chamber of Commerce

Wood Row Chocolates, Suffolk: “Little works of edible art, these chocolates taste as stunning as they look! Seasonal specials mean you’re always in for a surprise.”

Hillfarm Oils, Heveningham: “The first farm in the UK to grow, cold-press and bottle its own rapeseed oil, Hillfarm, a family business for generations, has blazed a trail with its brilliant products.”

Number Eighteen Honey, Boxford: “Practising and promoting traditional beekeeping and honeymaking techniques, Number Eighteen’s products - honeys and beeswax items - are all beautiful.”

Cambridgeshire: Sponsored by Howes Percival

Mucca, Cambridge: “Incredible product. Perfect consistently. Presented amazingly. The best Beef Wellington you’ll ever have.”

Manfood, Huntingdon: “Made with both flair and care, every jam, pickle, chutney and condiment we’ve tried has been brilliant. Special shout-out to the satay sauce. . .”

Biscotti di Debora, Dry Drayton: “Bringing the elegance of the Italian pâtisserie to Cambridge, Debora’s creations, from dinky petits fours to centrepiece meringatas, are unrivalled. We order for every special occasion.”

Beverage Producer of the Year
Suffolk: Sponsored by Love Newmarket

Veto, Bury St Edmunds: “Light, fresh and containing a kick of caffeine, this alcohol-free lager is really impressive - plus 15% of profits go to charity: nice touch.”

Heart of Suffolk Distillery, Bacton: “Pot-distilled in small batches with an artful selection of botanicals, these gins are a tribute to their home county. Betty’s London Dry is hard to beat.”

Niche Cocktails, Easton: “Mixed with premium spirits from Adnams and The English Distillery, when it comes to canned cocktails, Niche is best in class. The Espresso Martini is a standout.”

Cambridgeshire: Sponsored by Love Newmarket

Breckland Orchard, Babraham: “The finest soft drinks you’ll find, these ‘posh pops’ feature natural ingredients and moreish flavours, from classics like dandelion and burdock to sloe and rose.”

Nikki's Homemade, Burwell: “Nikki’s ability to blend natural ingredients into innovative and delicious spirits has earned her a loyal following. Beyond her craftsmanship, her warmth, integrity and commitment to sustainability make her a standout in the industry.”

Change Coffee Roasters, Cambridge: “It's lovely to see a local independent coffee roaster rival those in London. They work closely with farmers and suppliers to ensure that their products are not only delicious, but also socially responsible.”

Farm Shop/Deli of the Year
Suffolk: Sponsored by Martin & Co

La Hogue Farm Shop & Cafe, Chippenham: “The farm shop highlights local produce at its best: just look at the vegetables that greet you as you walk in! The butchery, in particular, is outstanding.”

Seed Farm Shop, Worlington: “It may not be the biggest farm shop, but it’s packed with brilliant hyperlocal produce - eggs from just down the road, coffee roasted in Bury - and the family team are lovely.”

Suffolk Food Hall, Wherstead: “If you’re looking for a showcase of Suffolk produce, look no further: from local meat, fish, fruit and veg to artisan-baked breads, the Food Hall has it all - and it’s all top-quality.”

Cambridgeshire: Sponsored by John Lewis & Partners

Victoria’s Cheese, Ely: “A truly amazing individual and independent deli. It has an inviting and friendly feel and is a real asset to the city of Ely.”

Willow Grange Farm Shop & Cafe, Chittering: “A small family-run shop with lots of local suppliers, it’s a warm, inviting space. As well as stocking great produce, they also offer workshops and pop-up events.”

The Larder, Burwash Manor, Barton: “A fixture on the Cambridge food scene for decades now, a visit to The Larder is always delicious. Alongside fresh local produce, you’ll find not-on-the-high-street specialities. Led by Clare, the team are also lovely.”

Street Food/Pop-up of the Year
Suffolk: Sponsored by Wood St. Coffee

Marco’s Smoke Shed: “Absolutely amazing burgers cooked and made by a great guy sourcing all-local ingredients.”

Papas Locas: “There simply is no other van offering so much choice and such quality. Plus they’re super-interesting people who clearly know how to make delicious food!”

Amelie: “Amelie’s flammekueche - think super-skinny pizzas spread with creme fraiche instead of tomato sauce - are both delicious and addictive. They’ve recently arrived in Suffolk from Cambridge, and it’s Suffolk’s gain.”

Cambridgeshire: Sponsored by Wood St. Coffee

Mulino Pasta: “My favourite pasta! Like in Italy! Incomparable food, fantastic atmosphere, superb service and excellent value.”

Steak & Honour: “Cambridge’s OG street food brand, Steak & Honour’s burgs, fries and sides never disappoint. If you’ve not tried the mac-n-cheese - do!”

Sebshimi by Neighbour's Flavours: “They make the most delicious sushi. Amazing delivery, the tastiest food, honestly mind-blowingly delicious. Also their social media is hilarious. . .”

Restaurant of the Year
Suffolk: Sponsored by Kale & Damson

Lark, Bury St Edmunds: “Inventive menus, dedication to local producers, consistently fantastic quality food, impeccable service, perfect atmosphere. . . It’s a total gem.”

The Leaping Hare, Wyken Vineyards, Stanton: “We’ve been eating here for - literally - decades and have never been served a single disappointing dish. The emphasis on seasonal and local produce makes the menu an ever-evolving treat.”

Retreat East, Hemingstone: “Everything about this place - the beautiful barn setting, the seasonally led menus, the adept team - makes it something special. If you’ve never had the afternoon tea, book now: Best. Sausage. Roll. Ever.”

Cambridgeshire: Sponsored by Kale & Damson

Amelie Restaurant, Ben’s Yard, Stuntney: “The food is delicious and up-and-coming - they are always using new and exciting combinations - and the presentation is beautiful. They also host wonderful events.”

Gonville Kitchen, Cambridge: “This is high-end restaurant food: exceptional quality, elevated and innovative. “The welcoming atmosphere and top-tier service also make it a standout in Cambridge's dining scene.”

Fin Boys, Cambridge: “When Jay Rayner gives a place a rave, you know it’s good. You won’t find finer or fresher ingredients - or a more talented crew in the kitchen.”

Hotel of the Year
Suffolk: Sponsored by Ernies Outdoor Living

Seckford Hall Hotel & Spa: “The staff and service are excellent - friendly and nothing is too much trouble. The room we stayed in was fantastic. The food was fabulous. The spa was a real treat. A perfect hotel with everything we could ask for.”

The Angel Hotel, Bury St Edmunds: “Whenever we meet friends in Bury - whether for coffee, drinks or dinner - The Angel is our go-to. Not only is the setting beautiful and the food and drink offer excellent, we love the staff; friendly and attentive, without ever feeling intrusive.”

The Swan at Lavenham Hotel & Spa: “We may be biased - we spent our wedding night here - but The Swan is a truly special place. Full of both period charm and contemporary comforts, it’s a lovely place to dine and to stay. And the spa! Amazing.”

Cambridgeshire: Sponsored by Visit Cambridge: delivered by Cambridge BID

Hilton Cambridge City Centre: “You won’t find a friendlier or more professional team. The hotel also supports local charities, including Wintercomfort and Jimmy’s, and prioritises green and ethical practices.”

University Arms, Cambridge: “Walk into this historic hotel and you immediately feel special. From the impressive surroundings to the attentive staff and excellent food and drink, it’s pretty hard to beat.”

Graduate by Hilton Cambridge: “Alongside the riverside location - the garden really comes into its own in summer - this hotel stands out thanks to its glamorous bar, inviting restaurant and skilled team.”

Hospitality Hero
Suffolk: Sponsored by TR Global Events

Liam Schofield, Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa: “Exceptional customer service is second nature to Liam. His warm and professional demeanour makes every guest feel welcome.”

Rosa Ferrara, milsoms Kesgrave Hall, Ipswich: “Rosa sets the tone for the whole team at milsoms Kesgrave Hall. Approachable, friendly and warm yet totally on it, she epitomises the hotel's brand of hospitality.”

Aldrin Manaois, Mangiare, Newmarket: “When we realised Aldrin had moved to Mangiare, we were delighted: our favourite restaurant now has one of our favourite front-of-house staff! He makes everyone feel truly welcome.”

Cambridgeshire: Sponsored by Cambridge Food & Drink Week: delivered by Cambridge BID

Elle Roberts-Nissen, Elle-events Management, Cambridge: “We love Elle’s enthusiasm and creativity; nothing is too much trouble for her and her team. From the initial contact we knew we had the right person.”

The Permit Room Team, Cambridge: “The staff are honestly some of the nicest around — really friendly and on it, without being over the top. I love the fact that a meal is donated to Magic Breakfast for every meal eaten there too.”

Kayoko Onuma, Hilton Cambridge City Centre: “Her radiant smile, boundless energy and nothing-is-ever-too-much attitude set a warm and welcoming tone that guests carry with them long after they leave.”

Sustainability Hero
Suffolk: Sponsored by Grand Arcade: Let’s Go Circular

The Debenham Lion: “Locally reared meat comes from the butcher next door and the best-selling ale is brewed two streets away. Thanks to the swaps initiative, regulars can exchange homegrown produce for bar credits. Food and drink miles don’t get lower.”

Bedford Lodge Hotel & Spa, Newmarket: “Recognised with the prestigious Green Tourism Gold Award, sustainability is deeply ingrained in the hotel’s ethos, from sourcing ingredients locally to reducing its carbon footprint.”

Alkemy Distillery, Bury St Edmunds: “I’m a real fan of this product because of how unique it is, how tangible its connections to Suffolk are, and because of the principles and ethics behind it - the local beet it’s made from comes from the refinery just down the road.”

Cambridgeshire: Sponsored by Grand Arcade: Let’s Go Circular

Abbey People, Cambridge: “Run by a tireless team, Abbey People diverts supermarket surplus to people who need it most and provides other essentials, such as toiletries and fuel vouchers, too. Reducing waste and increasing equality in the process.”

Flourish Produce, Hildersham: “What Callixta has achieved at Flourish is genuinely awe-inspiring. She's grown the business not only into an impressive organic fruit, veg and flower enterprise, but a brilliant example of a regenerative farm, which nurtures nature and the soil along with the crops."

NaturePac, St Ives: “Naturepac helps local businesses find the right sustainable food-to-go packaging for their business. With recyclable and compostable options, they are helping reduce waste and improve efficiency.”

Chef of the Year
Suffolk: Sponsored by Kale & Damson

Justin Sharp, Pea Porridge, Bury St Edmunds: “The Michelin star is thoroughly deserved. Justin cooks outstandingly-flavoured food using a wide variety of ingredients and makes maximum use of absolutely everything, minimising waste. He and Jurga set a great tone for the place.”

Vincent Woolley, The Pantry, Newmarket: “Whether you’re popping in for brunch, dining in the evening or attending a special event, one thing is guaranteed: Vincent’s food will be fresh, seasonal and delicious. He’s created a great kitchen team too.”

Dave Wall, The Unruly Pig, Woodbridge: “Dave’s ‘Britalian’ style fuses the best of British with the flair and flavours of the Med. What he’s achieved at The Unruly Pig, now a destination for foodies nationwide, should be recognised.”

Cambridgeshire: Sponsored by Kale & Damson

Lee Clarke, Parker’s Tavern, Cambridge:“Lee’s commitment to seasonal, sustainable ingredients and his passion for showcasing the best of East Anglian produce make him a standout chef - and a true ambassador for Cambridge’s culinary scene.”

Dan Fancett, Fancett’s, Cambridge: “Dan is going from strength to strength running his place on Mill Road. The food is always amazing - and the set lunch is the best value in Cambridge.”

Sam Carter, Restaurant 22, Cambridge: “The Michelin star says it all: I challenge you to find more artful or delicious plates anywhere.”

Food & Drink Hero
Suffolk: Sponsored by TREATT PLC

Charlotte Giddings, Brownie & the Bean: “As well as being an impressive businesswoman, Charlotte is an inspiring advocate for women and black entrepreneurs, giving talks on mental health, female entrepreneurship, and the importance of representation.”

Suffolk Market Events Team: “The first thing they did was save Lavenham Farmers’ Market; fast-forward to today and they give a platform to 160-plus local traders across five market locations. They’ve really helped put Suffolk on the foodie map.”

Gatehouse Food Bank, Bury St Edmunds: “Providing three-day emergency food parcels, Gatehouse gives help to people when they need it most. The team provide wider support too, enabling people to access everything from services to furniture.”

Cambridgeshire: Sponsored by Gavin Human Cambridge Estate Agent

The Flavour Team, Cambridge Radio: “Every episode shines a light on local people and places, often revealing delicious new things to try. All the presenters give their time and expertise freely, supporting endless local independents along the way - it's just brilliant.”

Alison Crouch, Ferry Project Cookery School: “Alison is an inspiration: she has generated a new generation of chefs. The patience, creativity and confidence-building that she has shown homeless clients is incredible.”

Simon Tompkins, Cambridge Foodies: “He's grown this food and drink community from scratch through social media and supports local and independent businesses throughout our region. The previews and reviews he provides are personal yet informal, giving you all the info you need.”

All the shortlisted businesses will now be judged by our panel of independent industry experts, with Suffolk’s winners announced in a ceremony at Haughley Park on June 9, and Cambridgeshire's winners revealed at Childerley Park on June 23. For more information see: velvetfooddrinkawards.co.uk