Be Inclusive Hospitality Spotlight Awards crowns 2024 winners

Be Inclusive Hospitality (BIH) has revealed the winners of the third iteration of the BIH Spotlight Awards, which recognise the exceptional talent of Black, Asian and ethnic minorities working in UK hospitality. 

A total of 15 accolades were presented during last night’s (21 October) ceremony at M Threadneedle Street in London.

The categories were judged by Nitisha Patel, development chef and founder of Nitisha Patel Food Consultancy; Rare Restaurants’ culinary director Mike Reid and people director Joanne Sullivan; Monica Berg, co-founder of Tayēr + Elementary; Peter Martin, founder and executive director of Peach 20/20; and Akwasi Brenya-Mensah, chef and writer.

Two of the winners were decided by the public and more than 800 votes were cast.

Lorraine Copes, founder of BIH, said: “Once again, I have been absolutely blown away by the energy, vibrancy and collective celebration experienced at these awards. We have a national community, with attendees from Scotland, Wales, Birmingham and beyond – all coming together to celebrate the brilliant businesses and individuals bringing passion and innovation into hospitality industry.

The number of entries and attendees has truly reinforced the importance of these awards, and we remain committed to shining a bright spotlight on those who are truly deserving.”

The winners of the BIH Spotlight Awards 2024

Writer of the Year Romy Gill

Chef of the Year Mandy Yin, Sambal Shiok

Drinks Professional of the Year Paul Rutasikwa, Matugga Rum

Pastry Chef of the Year Darryl Collins, Hotel Endsleigh

Rising Star Davina Dhami, Leonardo Royal Hotel Birmingham

Head Office Impact Nikita Mathew, Burger & Lobster

Brand of the Year Chef Dom Taylor

Bar or Pub of the Year Eko Brewery and Tap Room

African Food The Quirky Oven

Caribbean Food Jamaya

East & Southeast Asian Food Little Yellow Rice Co

Middle Eastern Food Bunhead Bakery

South Asian Food Maasi’s

People’s Choice Person of the Year Olawale Makinde, Leonardo Royal Hotel Birmingham

People’s Choice Restaurant of the Year Akara

Be Inclusive Hospitality was founded by in 2020 with the aim of creating an inclusive and fair hospitality sector.

Image: Freezeframe Media