The 2011 Observer Food Monthly Awards, in association with Bordeaux Wines, have launched today. The awards celebrate the British food industry, with Observer Food Monthly editor Allan Jenkins commenting: “We are proud the awards celebrate the people challenging our eating and shopping habits, those that appreciate the value of food. I hope our readers think hard about who they nominate for an award and I am sure, as ever, the entries will demonstrate innovation and excellence in the field of food and drink.”This year’s judging panel includes: Nigel Slater, Observer food writer and chef; Jay Rayner, Observer food critic; Angela Hartnett, chef; Sat Bains, chef and restaurateur; Jason Atherton, chef; Thomasina Miers, chef and restaurateur; Jo Barnes; co-founder of Sauce PR; Lucy Siegle, broadcaster and ethical living correspondent, The Observer; Tim Hayward, food writer and broadcaster; Allan Jenkins, editor, OFM; and Gareth Grundy, deputy editor, OFM.
The categories for this year’s awards are:
Best ethical restaurant (sponsored by Cafédirect)
Best independent local retailer
Best food blog
Best restaurant
Best cheap eats
Best cookbook (sponsored by Harvey Jones)
Best place to drink
Best Sunday lunch
Reader’s recipe (sponsored by Bordeaux Wines)
Reader’s cocktail
Food personality (sponsored by Weber)
For information and to nominate, visit: www.observer.co.uk/foodawards. Readers who submit nominations will have the chance of winning a range of prizes. The deadline for entries is Friday 24 June.
