Winners of the Harden’s London Restaurant Awards 2016 revealed

Earlier today (Monday, September 12, 2016) the Harden’s restaurant guide announced the winners of its inaugural awards event which was held at a glitzy ceremony at London’s Hippodrome Casino in Leicester Square.

• Who were the winners of Harden's London Restaurant Awards 2017?
• Read more about Harden's here

Celebrations kicked off with a drinks and canape reception in the Hippodrome Piano Bar and Lounge before guests were taken through to The Theatre where the winners were announced.

Hosted by food and drink broadcaster, Nigel Barden, the winners from each of the 12 categories - which included Top Gastronomic Experience, Wine List of the Year and Best Afternoon Tea - were presented with their award in front of 200 of the ‘Great and the Good’ of London’s Hospitality industry.

There was also a separate prize in the form of a Lifetime Achievement Award which was presented to Bruce Poole to recognise his performance in the Harden’s survey over the years. Bruce Poole’s Chez Bruce has always been a favourite in the guide having been voted London’s Favourite Restaurant for 11 consecutive years. On accepting his award Bruce thanked his staff for their support while highlighting the political concerns over staffing post Brexit.

Speaking to The Staff Canteen after the event, the Guide’s co-founder, Peter Harden, said: “I was absolutely delighted with how it went today, I don’t think you could have had a better start for an awards event.

“There was a very good vibe and I’m confident with the shortlist because I know how it was put together. The vibe from the audience suggested they knew why those were shortlisted for today’s event.

“I thought the right people were chosen and the right people won. I was also pleased with our aim to try and celebrate new talent which I think we did effectively and I am very pleased with our overall winner because I don’t think they’ve had the recognition they deserve to be honest.”

The 48 nominees were selected based on their performance in the Harden’s annual survey which is taken from thousands of restaurant goers. The final selection was then whittled down by Harden’s editorial team.

This year, more than 7, 500 foodies contributed to 50, 000 reviews which formed the basis for the first London Restaurant Awards.

Harden’s London Restaurants 2017, £12.99 and Harden’s Best UK Restaurant 2017, £15.99 will be published in October and November respectively and will be available at all good book stores.

The winners                                                 

Top Gastronomic Experience

The Araki

Top Newcomer

Black Axe Mangal

Top Cheat Eat

Hoppers

Best for Business

The Wolseley

Best Steaks and Grills

Guinea Grill

Best Street Food

The Rib Man

Wine List of the Year

Noble Rot

Top Bar or Pub

Harwood Arms

Best for Romance

Clos Maggiore

Best Breakfast or Brunch

Milk

Top Coffee House

Department of Coffee

Best Afternoon Tea

Ham Yard

Lifetime Achievement Award

Bruce Poole