The YEP Oliver Awards 2024

DISH Hospitality Recruitment were thrilled to sponsor this year’s Oliver Awards and attend the 15th awards ceremony at New Dock Hall, Leeds this year. 

2023 “Chef of the Year” winner, Craig Rogan at the Collective, designed the exquisite menu for the night and Rich Williams skilfully hosted the awards that celebrate the food and drink scene of Leeds. 

Judges, Abbey Maclure, Senior Reporter & Lifestyle Specialist at the Yorkshire Evening Post; Stephanie Moon, consultant Chef; Danny Malin, YouTuber; Wayne Topley, Chair of Leeds Hotel & Venues Association; and Stanley Dru, content creator, selected finalists from over 200 entries for this year’s Oliver Awards. Here are the winners they chose:

Best Café or Deli

Empire Café – In March 2023, The Empire Café reignited a forgotten corner of Leeds, bringing live fire cookery to a venue which has been feeding the city for over 120 years.

Newcomer of the Year

Bricklebank’s Café & Bar – 22 year old Entrepreneur Adam has transformed his dream into an achievement. Bricklebank’s Café & Bar is an all day, every day concept which boasts an unforgettable experience.

Best Bar

Green Room – Green Room is a social space that caters for all; from daytime brunching or late night escapades, it’s versatility and commitment to supporting local makes it a city staple!

Best Family Friendly

The Thornhill – The best family run business in Calverley. The Thornhill sits in the heart of the little village of Calverley offering so much to the community and general public. Home cooked food to die for!

Best Takeaway

Hooyah Burgers – Hooyah Burgers are a firm favourite on delivery platforms in Leeds. The Louisville burger was in the top 5 most ordered items on Deliveroo and boast a 4.7 star rating. 

Sustainability Award

Kino – Kino has a passion for sustainability, whether through the dishes it serves, its approach to waste or keeping it local with suppliers and employees.

Best Speciality

byMölly – Pioneering the private hire sector, byMölly grows from strength to strength as Leeds’ favourite private chef.

Best Brunch

Café Deli Margaux – The Brunch menu at Margaux’s certainly has the WOW factor, it gives traditional breakfast dishes a magical twist and you will struggle to find a better brunch menu in Leeds.

Best Pub or Brewery

Horsforth Brewery & Taproom – Nestled in the heart of Horsforth this brewery creates an inclusive selection of beers, served up in its friendly taproom, providing a community hub that is welcoming to all.

Best World Restaurant

Dastaan Leeds – Dastaan Leeds is a fine example of authentic Indian Cuisine, bringing the food of the world to the city of Leeds.

Best Customer Service

Chef Jono at V&V – A five star experience from start to finish, a wonderful restaurant with a dedicated team working hard to provide excellent customer service.

Best Hotel Restaurant

The Grill at Dakota Leeds – Located within Dakota Leeds, nestled between Greek Street and Russell Street; The Grill at Dakota Leeds is a dining experience like none other.

Rising Star Award

Nicko Lachica (Herencia) – At the young age of 23, Nicko Lachica has achieved remarkable success and milestones throughout his career. Nicko’s first solo venture is Herencia, a weekly pop-up in Boot an Rally.

Outstanding Contribution

Claire at the Moot Hall Arms – Claire Haseltine comes from a domestic violence past & took over the Moot Hall Arms three years ago. She has turned the place into a LUFC hotbed & has raised over £5,000 for Leeds Women’s Aid.

Judges’ Choice Award

Matt Healy (Forde)

Best Fine Dining Experience

Craig Rogan at The Collective – Since opening in October 2023, Craig Rogan at the Collective has gone from strength to strength. Offering an unparalleled experienced with innovative food & impeccable service.

Chef of the Year

Ajith Kumar (Tharavadu)

Overall, the event was a huge success and we’re already looking forward to the 16th Oliver Awards next year!