We’re all acquainted with the bustling energy in hospitality venues during Christmas, New Year, and Valentine’s Day. These festive periods traditionally bring a deluge of customers seeking celebratory atmospheres, delectable cuisine, and vibrant entertainment. However, the emerging trend of celebrating a myriad of holidays throughout the year is prompting a diverse array of venues to craft unique events, drawing in customers eager to revel in the eclectic celebrations of occasions like Halloween and Bonfire Night.
The renowned Beech Hill Hotel & Spa is hosting a Halloween Ball on the 28th of October 2023, promising an enchanting evening of eerie excitement and gastronomical delights. Guests are welcomed with champagne and handmade canapés, allowing for relaxed mingling on the terrace overlooking the majestic Windermere. The establishment assures a safe and engaging environment, even without the protection of a full moon. A gourmet three-course meal themed around the spooky season and local produce awaits in Burlington’s restaurant, accompanied by the harmonious tones of ‘Classic Ensembles’. The DJ ensures a lively atmosphere, keeping spirits high until midnight. This hauntingly delightful experience is priced at £59 per person, providing a valuable opportunity for both locals and visitors to relish in the unique combination of exquisite food, stunning views, and festive entertainment characteristic of Beech Hill Hotel & Spa.
Muncaster Castle, an iconic and historic landmark, is hosting a diverse array of Halloween activities throughout the week, offering something for everyone. The Halloween Family Festival includes arts, crafts, shows, and the thrilling experience of navigating through a spooky maze. But that’s not all; evenings at Muncaster bring a new, scarier festival, ‘Scarecaster’, recommended for those aged 18 and above, transforming the castle into a maze of terror and suspense. ‘The Vanishing’, an immersive poltergeist experience within the castle, and the ‘Twilight Owls’ display offer further diversification, enriching the experience for those seeking eerie enchantment. These diverse and captivating activities exemplify Muncaster Castle’s innovative approach to leveraging festivities to enhance visitor experience and engagement.
The Angel Hotel in Pershore is marking Bonfire Night 2023 with a diverse array of attractions, performances, and a stunning firework display over the River Avon. This event encapsulates a variety of entertainment, from pop-rock duos to fire shows, alongside local culinary delights, showcasing the venue’s commitment to providing an all-encompassing experience. The combination of unique performances, local flavours, and the picturesque riverside setting exemplifies The Angel Hotel’s dedication to creating memorable experiences, highlighting the establishment’s essence of charm, character, and culinary excellence.
Rushton Hall Hotel and Spa, rich in history and elegance, is hosting a unique Bonfire Night on the 4th of November 2023, celebrating the occasion with a lavish three-course meal, sparkling wine, and a spectacular fireworks display, accompanied by mulled wine. This venue’s connection to Francis Tresham of The Gunpowder Plot adds a layer of historical significance to the celebrations, enhancing the overall experience. Guests can enjoy luxurious accommodations and spa facilities, enveloped in the grandeur and exquisite architecture of Rushton Hall, exemplifying the venue’s commitment to quality, luxury, and historical richness.
Hospitality venues are capitalising on the growing popularity of diverse holidays, creating a range of inventive and engaging events to draw in customers throughout the year. From the Halloween ball at Beech Hill Hotel & Spa, offering gastronomical delights and stunning views, to the haunted, historic ambience of Muncaster Castle and the elaborate Bonfire Night celebrations at The Angel Hotel and Rushton Hall Hotel and Spa, each venue offers a unique experience reflective of its character and values. These celebrations not only boost the venues’ appeal and customer base but also enrich the festive atmosphere, allowing guests to explore new experiences and create lasting memories. These multifaceted celebrations are a testament to the mutual joy and benefits they bring, allowing venues and customers alike to revel in the vibrant tapestry of festivities that the year has to offer.
Try as you might as a parent, it’s hard not to get sucked into the high jinks of Halloween, which gets bigger and spookier (and more heavily marketed) each year. We say you’re better getting stuck in to the madness, especially since Halloween always falls around October half-term, ensuring a week packed with excellent events for kids. So, whether you’re staying at home for the holidays, or already booked on a British break, these Halloween dates are worth getting on your broomstick for.
1. Fright night, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk
There can be something sinister about funfairs at the best of times and Great Yarmouth Pleasure Beach takes that to the next level, installing characters who roam the park (zombies, killer clowns, escaped convicts) and spooky, seasonal rides such as a Scare Maze and Not So Fun Factory. The startle-factor peaks on Sunday, October 29, with a monumental fireworks display (from £20; pleasure-beach.co.uk). It’s recommended that under-tens steer clear, so take very little ones to Hippodrome Circus instead for a Halloween-themed show, where fancy dress is encouraged for maximum larks at its dance-party climax (adults from £20, children from £13; hippodromecircus.com). Parkdean’s Vauxhall holiday park in Great Yarmouth has glamping, lodges and caravans, plus an indoor waterpark. Details Three nights’ self-catering for five from £99; parkdeanresorts.co.uk
Preschoolers and pooches are the stars of a very wholesome Halloween at Cotswolds Farm Park (adults £12.95, children £11.95; cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk). Fittingly, it’s owned by the Countryfile farmer Adam Henson, who invites all ages to his photogenic pick-your-own pumpkin patch, or for free face painting (vampire, ghost or cute pumpkin?), as well as pumpkin-carving sessions and fun in the maize maze. There are even autumnal selfie stations with red-and-gold backdrops, where costumed kids — and dogs — can pose for pictures. Stay in a lodge, safari tent or camping pod on the farm grounds. Details Tent pitches from £28; cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk
3. Scary fairytales, Ushaw, Co Durham
On the moors that fringe Durham city, Ushaw — an historic house, chapel and gardens — has the look of a haunted mansion year-round, with its gothic windows, stained glass and ancient stone statues. But things get spookier at Halloween, when an illuminated night trail leads children through dark fairytales come to life; meet Little Red Riding Hood, who isn’t as innocent as you might expect, and the eerie Gingerbread Man with his ominous plans. There are three trail times on the nights of October 28 and 29, each scarier than the last, so check Ushaw’s scare-o-meter before booking a slot (adults £10, children £7; ushaw.org). If you dare sleep over, some rooms in this 200-year-old house are open to guests. Details B&B doubles from £60; ushaw.org
4. Spooky prison tour, Belfast
Creepy Crumlin Road Gaol, with its hanging cell and graveyard, might sound like a half-term day out that’ll leave you with PTSD. But for October only, with kids in mind, the Victorian-era jail is running tours led by Anna the Friendly Witch, who’ll explain the haunted history of the building before taking kids to the Pumpkin Patch. Here, in the gaol gardens, children use wheelbarrows to hunt for pumpkins and are then treated to a Halloween musical (£15; crumlinroadgaol.com). Not far from Belfast, haunted Ballygally Castle is where you’ll want to stay to complete a ghoulish getaway; the historic hotel has two resident ghosts and serves Halloween high tea. Details B&B doubles from £150; ballygallycastlehotel.com
5. Taxi ride of terror, London
Graham, a grisly London historian and author, also happens to be a cab driver with a firm command of the Knowledge. On his “London Horror Taxi Tour” you’ll explore execution sites, plague pits, murder scenes and haunted churchyards across the capital (from £49pp; toursbylocals.com). It lasts three hours and can be tailored for tots. Then check in to Treehouse Hotel London in Marylebone (less than ten minutes’ walk from Hamleys toy shop), which has Family Tree rooms for four people, with tepees, games and bathrobes for the children. Over half-term there will be Halloween brunch on the menu, for guests and non-guests, including pumpkin cake and black ice cream. Details Room-only doubles from £329; treehousehotels.com
6. After-dark antics, Hampshire
Hampshire’s New Forest is already a half-term family fave, thanks to the autumn leaves and its child-friendly activities. Outdoor archery gets a Halloween twist with vampires and werewolves becoming targets, while canoeing will creep you out — there are special after-dark river tours, featuring ghost stories, tricks and treats (from £17; newforestactivities.co.uk). Over in Paultons theme park, rides stay open until 7.30pm and the entire place — including Peppa Pig World — gets a spooky makeover (£42; paultonspark.co.uk). Stay at family-focused New Park Manor hotel, where children can venture into its wooden haunted house or do pumpkin carving and Halloween craft activities. Details B&B doubles from £119 (newparkmanor.com)
7. Wildlife and wizardry, Eden Project, Cornwall
If your children aren’t the ghouls and guts type, there’s a more mythical type of Halloween going on at the Eden Project, where towering Tree Giants have taken root at the Cornish natural park for October. Once you find one of these forest guardians hidden among the grounds, they’ll entertain with immersive storytelling and performances; there are also wand-making workshops and ice skating (adults from £33, children from £11; edenproject.com). Stay at Fowey Hall nearby, where families can go ghost hunting and decorate Halloween pumpkins and biscuits; the hotel also has indoor and outdoor pools. Details B&B doubles from £191 (luxuryfamilyhotels.co.uk)
Welcome to our special feature celebrating National Hospitality Day, a day dedicated to acknowledging the hard work, resilience, and passion that fuel the hospitality industry. As we navigate through this vibrant and ever-changing field, we are reminded of the incredible people and places that make it what it is. In this blog, we are honoured to spotlight some extraordinary individuals and remarkable venues that define the essence of hospitality. From overcoming challenges to setting the standard for excellence, their stories not only inspire but also illustrate why this industry is so compelling and crucial.
Maz Hassan Mazooz
Meet Maz Hassan Mazooz, a man of many talents and a passion for hospitality. Born in Kuwait, Maz is a Jordanian/British citizen fluent in English, Arabic, and French. With over four decades of experience in the industry, he’s a force to be reckoned with, having worked his way up from the ground floor to managerial roles in various esteemed establishments.
Maz’s journey in hospitality started when he moved to the UK in 1981 to study the craft at Watford Catering College in North London. Ever since he has been climbing the ladder of success in the industry. From casual dining to 3 AA Rosette and 5-star hotels, he has seen and done it all.
When asked what he loves about working in the hospitality industry, Maz had this to say: “I love all aspects of the industry and meeting different people. I’m very passionate about providing great customer service, being part of a team, and always going the extra mile for guests.” His love for the job is evident in his drive to excel in every aspect, from customer service to team dynamics.
Concerning stigmas within the industry, Maz acknowledges the issue of staff shortages. He believes that many students enter the field seeing it as a quick money-making opportunity rather than a fulfilling career. Maz counters this notion, stating, “It’s a great industry to be in; I would never do a 9 -5 job. The industry gives you the opportunity to travel, learn, and work across various departments of a business, learning new skills.”
Maz Hassan Mazooz is more than just a hospitality professional; he is a true aficionado of the industry. His passion for customer service, team dynamics, and the rich experiences that come with the job make him a standout figure. Maz not only challenges the stigmas around the hospitality sector but also serves as an example that a career in hospitality can be as rewarding as it is demanding. Maz’s journey shows us that with the right attitude and an open heart, the hospitality world offers not just a job but a lifestyle full of enriching experiences.
The Alexander Hotel Collection is a compilation of unique hotels and spas graced with history, opulence, and superior service. Situated just beyond the hustle and bustle of London, each property within this collection has its own tale to tell, its own charm to offer, and its own standard of excellence to maintain. Founded in 1994 by Peter & Deborah Hinchcliffe, the Alexander Hotel Collection has grown to encompass five unique country house hotels and two lavish spas. Whether you’re captivated by the 5-star glory of Great Fosters, complete with its Michelin-starred restaurant The Tudor Pass, or the architectural brilliance of Barnett Hill, there’s something in this collection for every guest.
“The Hospitality industry is so vast and varied, offering a style of business that would suit every guest and every employee. Every day in the industry is different, never boring, fast-moving, demanding with great opportunities and great rewards for those that stay and grow within the industry,” says the team behind the Alexander Hotel Collection. Their statement encapsulates the essence of what makes hospitality a phenomenal field to be part of.
The Alexander Hotel Collection prides itself on its commitment to employee growth and recognition. “We have three out of our five General Managers who joined us in junior management roles and have worked hard and gained experience. They are now heading up our flagship hotels responsible for growing the new managers of the future,” the company shares, exemplifying their investment in internal talent. They further celebrate their staff through various recognition schemes and training partnerships, illustrating the limitless opportunities within the hospitality sector.
The Alexander Hotel Collection isn’t just a portfolio of luxury hotels and spas; it’s a beacon for what the hospitality industry can achieve. From providing a diverse range of experiences for guests to fostering a nurturing environment for employees, they truly set the gold standard. This National Hospitality Day, we celebrate not just the luxury and elegance that the Alexander Hotel Collection offers, but also the passion, dedication, and opportunities that make it a cornerstone in the hospitality industry.
Jaspal Negi
Jaspal Negi’s story is one of resilience, passion, and a lifelong commitment to the hospitality industry. With over 30 years of experience, Jaspal has navigated through diverse roles and locations, eventually finding his niche in the world of luxury hospitality. Currently serving as a Food and Beverage Manager, his journey has been anything but ordinary, making his success more remarkable.
Jaspal started his career in hotel management in India under the mentorship of a supervisor. Eager for new opportunities and challenges, he moved to Scotland on a work permit. The journey wasn’t always smooth; he faced struggles to secure a job due to work permit restrictions and had to work in a café to stay in the country while also working part-time in a hotel. Finally, after a few more steps, he secured a permanent position in a 1 Michelin-starred Hotel. His heart has always been set on luxury work, and it shows.
When asked what fuels his passion for hospitality, Jaspal highlights the industry’s inclusive nature: “Hospitality is keeping prestige alive. People with no degrees or diplomas can get a job. Giving normal people a job gives them a chance to succeed.” He appreciates the industry for giving him the opportunity to engage with people from all walks of life, stating that it “gives you a chance to feel good.”
Jaspal is candid about the challenges the industry faces, especially post-COVID. He discusses the current sponsorship system, which he believes is restricting many people from abroad from securing jobs in hospitality. “The industry is cutting corners because there are no staff, but there are people out there who could do the job. This is causing the industry-wide standard to drop, and it doesn’t look good,” he says.
Jaspal Negi is not just a Food and Beverage manager; he’s an embodiment of what the hospitality industry stands for—opportunity, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. His journey from cafés in Scotland to Michelin-starred hotels in the UK exemplifies the vast opportunities the field offers. Jaspal’s insights into the industry’s current challenges are a clarion call for improvement, but his faith in the field’s ability to offer chances to ‘normal people’ makes him an inspiring figure in the landscape of luxury hospitality.
Rockliffe Hall is the North East’s only five-star resort and a name synonymous with luxury. Established in 2009, the resort has evolved dramatically over the past 14 years without losing its core identity as the number one luxury destination in the area. With 61 bedrooms, three on-resort restaurants, a Championship golf course, and award-winning spa and wellness facilities, Rockliffe Hall is the epitome of opulence and comfort.
Rockliffe Hall’s journey began 14 years ago with the mission to provide a one-of-a-kind luxury experience. Over the years, the resort has continually adapted and grown while preserving its core values. Today, it offers a comprehensive luxury experience, boasting an array of amenities that cater to all sorts of guests, from spa enthusiasts to golf lovers.
When it comes to what makes hospitality a fantastic industry, Rockliffe Hall sums it up perfectly: “Hospitality is such a dynamic industry which makes it really exciting. Each day is different, so you learn to expect the unexpected!” The resort embodies this dynamism, offering a myriad of experiences that promise something new every day.
Jason Adams, Managing Director
Rockliffe Hall goes above and beyond in supporting its staff. The resort offers a range of support channels, from internal and external training to employee assistance programs. There’s also a well-being section on the company intranet that provides resources ranging from meditation guides to mental health support services. But the resort doesn’t just stop at support; it celebrates its employees through the “Rockstar of the Month” and “Rockstar of the Year” awards. These honours recognize team members who truly live by the resort’s core values, acknowledging the essential role they play in making Rockliffe Hall a leading name in hospitality.
Rockliffe Hall isn’t just a luxury resort; it’s a vibrant community that understands the essence of hospitality. The resort represents the best the industry has to offer, not just in terms of facilities and guest experiences, but also in how it treats its staff. From being a dynamic place to work to providing an award-winning experience for guests, Rockliffe Hall stands as a testament to what makes hospitality a truly great industry. The resort not only sets the bar high for luxury destinations but also serves as an example of how to nurture and celebrate the people who make it all possible.
Jack Bond and Simon Ulph
Simon Ulph (left), Jack Bond (right)
Jack Bond and Simon Ulph, esteemed members of the culinary world, have uniquely shaped their careers, turning hospitality into an art form. Jack, the Head Chef at the Michelin Star restaurant, Source at Gilpin, embarked on his culinary journey as a Commis chef at Restaurant Marcus and swiftly climbed the ladder to Senior Sous Chef. His culinary adventure then took him to renowned establishments like Eleven Madison Square and Davis and Brooke under the mastery of Daniel Humm. Simon Ulph, adding his culinary flair to the Ginger Brigade of Relief Chefs, is currently working alongside Jack at Source at Gilpin. The restaurant is acclaimed for its impeccable focus on local produce, distinct flavours, seasonality, sustainability, and meticulous attention to detail, mirroring a canvas painted with precision and passion.
When asked about what they love about the hospitality industry, Jack mentions his love for the diversity of the job and the variety of characters one meets. He cherishes the creative aspect of the role, creating a symphony of flavours and experiences. Simon shares this passion, contributing his exceptional skills to enhance the culinary experiences at Source at Gilpin. The enthusiasm and love for the industry emanate through their dedication and innovative approach to gastronomy. “I like the different characters you meet and the diversity of the job and the creative aspect,” says Jack, encapsulating the essence of his journey in the hospitality industry.
Discussing the stigmas in the industry, both Jack and Simon advocate for a healthy work-life balance and routine. They assert that these are the keystones for building a sustainable business in the hospitality sector. “A healthy work-life balance with routine is key for a sustainable business,” Jack and Simon resonate. They emphasize the paramount importance of fostering a positive workplace and providing robust support structures. Their approach is holistic, focusing on creating an environment where mental health is prioritized, and staff feel safe and comfortable seeking help when needed. “Creating a positive workplace with support for anyone is vital for tackling the stigma surrounding mental health in our industry, making sure staff have a safe and comfortable place to be able to come to if they need help,” they state firmly.
Each story we’ve shared today serves as a testament to the passion, dedication, and ingenuity that are the hallmarks of this wonderful field. On this National Hospitality Day, let’s take a moment to celebrate not just the Michelin-starred hotels or the five-star resorts, but every individual, from the Food and Beverage Manager to Head Chef, who contributes to making our experiences memorable. Here’s to the unsung heroes and the renowned establishments that together make the hospitality industry the epitome of warmth, service, and excellence. Happy National Hospitality Day!
National Hospitality Day is just around the corner on September 29th, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to celebrate the industry that brings so much joy, comfort, and connection to our lives. At Ginger, our roots are firmly planted in the soil of hospitality. We’re a team of ex-hospitality professionals who have traded our aprons and guest lists for a new mission: helping others find their dream roles in this incredible industry. Join us as we share our love and some hilarious tales from our time on the front lines.
Jodie
Hospitality is a roller coaster of emotions and experiences. It’s hard work, but the camaraderie, laughter, and even the tears make it worthwhile. Working front-of-house, I found a second family among my colleagues. We would support each other through the longest shifts and celebrate our little victories together.
I remember my early days, around the age of 16, working in a restaurant with my best friend. The chefs were formidable figures, always yelling and once even chasing me out of the kitchen for being too cheeky. My friend, however, was a character. She had a knack for messing up orders but could talk her way out of anything. She’d send salmon instead of steak and then convince the customer that they’d love it, usually sweetening the deal with a free glass of wine. It was audacious, and she pulled it off every time.
Jenni
For me, Hospitality is all about the team and the connection with the community. Whether they’re locals or out-of-town guests, forming relationships and sharing smiles is what kept me going.
There was this one time when I was serving a table of seven and opened a bottle of champagne. The cork hit the ceiling, ricocheted back, and landed squarely on the table. Meanwhile, the champagne flowed freely—right onto one of the guests. It was like a comedy of errors in real time!
Hannah
I was supervising a young staff member who had just up sold a bottle of champagne. As she loosened the cork, it shot out, ricocheting off a stone wall and hitting a customer in the temple. The atmosphere turned from festive to funeral-like in a heartbeat. Then, the customer broke the silence with a hearty laugh. We all joined in and shared the champagne, turning a near-disaster into a moment of joy.
Robyn
In this industry, your teammates become your family in the blink of an eye. Even when the shift feels never-ending, there’s always someone to share a laugh or an encouraging word.
We once had a new manager who we decided to initiate with a harmless prank. We panicked and told him we were out of “ice solution” on a busy Friday evening. He was frantically searching for suppliers, ready to place an emergency order for what was essentially water. The look on his face when we revealed the joke was priceless.
On a less busy evening, a colleague and I played a game of ‘Battleships’ but with a twist. We used the restaurant’s table layout and hid under tables, calling out numbers until one of us found the other. It was a hilarious way to make the most of a slow night.
Craig
The joy of hospitality lies in the connections you make and the lives you touch. It’s an ever-evolving field where your personality shines, and every day is an opportunity for growth and exploration.
At a 50th birthday celebration, I struggled to open a bottle of champagne. In my clumsiness, I shook the bottle so much that when it finally opened, it sprayed champagne all over the room. We all laughed until our bellies hurt and enjoyed the bubbly that was left.
Ben
During a wedding ceremony, I was responsible for lighting the aisle candles. Just as the bride was about to make her grand entrance, a gust of wind blew the curtain into one of the candles. The curtain caught fire, making it a wedding no one would ever forget. The flames were quickly controlled, but for a moment there, we all held our breaths.
Josh
Hospitality, for me, is about creating unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s a couple saving up for a special night out or a regular patron, everyone gets the same exceptional treatment.
Once, in an old building filled with fireplaces, I lit all the fires but forgot to turn on the extractors. The entire building was filled with smoke, setting off the alarms and summoning the fire brigade. It was an embarrassing but valuable lesson in attention to detail!
We all hold a collective fondness for the hospitality industry, seasoned with both love and humour. As we approach National Hospitality Day, let’s raise a glass to the tireless professionals who make this industry so extraordinary. Here’s to the chefs, the servers, the managers, and everyone in between. Cheers!
Welcome to a fresh week of Where Ginger Goes! This week, our team members took Manchester by storm, exploring exquisite dining experiences, the theatrical world of Charles Dickens, and even a fireworks spectacular in Blackpool. Join us as we delve into their captivating adventures and delightful gastronomic escapades.
Craig’s Saturday in Manchester started with a bang at the prestigious restaurant, The Ivy. Known for its passion for seasonal, classic food and a devotion to service, The Ivy Collection lived up to its century-old legacy. Craig relished the Scottish Smoked Haddock and Salmon Fishcake, served with crushed garden peas, fresh herb sauce, and a perfectly poached free-range hen’s egg.
After a satisfying lunch, Craig headed to the Exchange Theatre for a unique theatre experience, watching the latest production of Charles Dickens’s “Great Expectations.” The theatre’s iconic 360-degree round stage, surrounded by the audience, offered a fresh perspective to every theatregoer.
Josh celebrated the week’s end with a visit to Whalley’s newest gem, Bistro King Street Kitchen. Amidst a relaxed atmosphere, Josh savoured quality food and wine, indulging in French Onion Soup and Braised Salmon.
Whalley Day brought joy to Josh’s weekend as he witnessed the village’s traditional duck race at Whalley Abbey. The whole village joined in the celebrations, with local shops, restaurants, and pubs adding to the festive atmosphere.
Angela and her daughter embarked on a culinary journey to El Gato Negro Tapas in Manchester. Alfresco pavement dining set the scene for Michelin Bib Gourmand tapas delights, including Caramelized Cauliflower with shabu shabu and Gambas Pil Pil featuring Tiger prawns with chilli and garlic oil, all garnished with fresh parsley.
Krystina and her family travelled to Blackpool for a spectacular evening of fireworks at the World Fireworks Championship, featuring India’s entrancing display crafted by the renowned Azan Morani. While in Blackpool, they couldn’t resist a classic seaside treat – fish and chips. Fresh from the Fleetwood Fish market, their meal at Bisham and Cleveleys Kitchens was a true coastal delight.
From gastronomic adventures at The Ivy to theatrical immersion at the Exchange Theatre, our team members embraced the vibrant heart of Manchester. Meanwhile, tradition and celebration took centre stage in Whalley, and Blackpool lit up the night with a dazzling fireworks display. Join us again next week for more Where Ginger Goes adventures!
Four restaurants have been revealed as the best Italian eateries in East Lancashire after being nominated for awards.
The Avenue Hotel in Brockhall Village, Bellissimo Italian in Burnley, Amico Mio in Whalley, and Vetrano Restaurant in Padiham have all been listed as finalists at the Italian Awards 2023.
The awards seek to highlight the best and most authentic Italian businesses across the UK.
The Avenue Hotel has been nominated for best restaurant in the north west and best pizzeria.
Bellissimo Italian is nominated for best deli/cafe and best restaurant dessert.
Co-owner of Bellissimo Italian Lynn Scibetta said: “We are ecstatic at getting so far in the Italian Awards, just getting here is amazing.
“We cannot wait for the bake off and co-owner and head chef John Scibetta is already preparing for it.
“We are just a small family business and have been on the most amazing roller coaster ride since coming back from the pandemic.
“John is an amazing chef and master baker by trade and, I know I am biased, but works so hard every day to please our lovely customers.
“This award will be for him, he deserves this so much.”
Amico Mio in Whalley has been nominated for best pizzeria and best north west restaurant.
A spokesperson said: “We are delighted to announce we have been recognised as finalists in both categories.
“Thank you to our wonderful loyal customers, friends and family who have voted for us/ We look forward to the final and hope to see you all soon.”
Vetrano Restaurant has also been nominated for best restaurant in the north west and best deli/café.
A spokesperson for the Italian Awards said: “Italian communities across the UK are a vital and integral part of our hospitality industry. Everyone has their own personal favourite Italian, and here at The Italian Awards we aim to recognise the true favourites across the country.
“We strive to recognise excellence, and pick out the very best in categories ranging from ‘best pizzeria’ to ‘best barista.
“Giving initial voting power to the general public allows us to generate finalists that truly are the nation’s favourites, battling it out to become the best of the best.”
Welcome to a fresh week of Where Ginger Goes! This week, our team members basked in the golden Welsh sun and enjoyed a delightful charity event, all while savouring delicious meals in picturesque locations. From beachside breakfasts to supporting a noble cause, their adventures are sure to captivate you.
Jodie’s getaway to Abersoch, Wales, was a sun-soaked escape filled with beach days and culinary delights. One standout spot was Just Mary’s, where she began her days with a scrumptious breakfast of Greek yoghurt topped with granola, fresh fruit, and maple syrup—a perfect start to any day. For lunch, it was an easy decision to return to Just Mary’s, where Jodie savoured a Moroccan-style Halloumi Flatbread adorned with a selection of homemade salads, dips, grilled halloumi, and Just Mary’s unique blend of spices.
In addition to her beachside escapades, Jodie also ventured to Ty Coch Inn, nestled in the charming fishing village of Porthdinllaen. This establishment, arguably one of the best pubs in Wales and officially in the top ten beach bars in the world, offered breathtaking views of the sunny beach and peaceful fishing boats bobbing on the sea. Jodie relished fresh local seafood while soaking in the picturesque surroundings.
Meanwhile, Craig joined hundreds of others at Ribchester Rec for a heartwarming cause. He spent Sunday afternoon watching ex-professional footballers play in the Red for Rio charity match. The event, dedicated to raising funds for Rio, the son of former Blackburn Rovers defender Tommy Spurr, who battled a rare form of cancer, saw Ribchester Rovers face off against a team of former professionals, including many former Rovers and Preston North End players. Craig also enjoyed the culinary offerings at the event, with a German grill and pizza stand, and joined in the raffle with exciting prizes such as a cabin stay at Ribby Hall and sweet hampers from LouLou’s in Billington, Ribble Valley.
This week’s adventures were a delightful mix of beachfront bliss, culinary discoveries, and community support. Join us as we dive into the stories of our team members, experiencing the beauty of Wales and the warmth of a charitable event. Stay tuned for more captivating journeys with Where Ginger Goes.
Have you ever found yourself stuck in the never-ending loop of long hours and high-stress work environments that the hospitality industry is infamous for? If so, you’re not alone. But what if we told you that a fulfilling personal life doesn’t have to be sacrificed for your career? At Ginger Hospitality, we specialize in offering tailored staffing solutions that help you attain the elusive yet essential work-life balance you’ve been craving.
Why Work-Life Balance Matters More Than You Think
In a sector as demanding as hospitality, it’s easy to get wrapped up in your job and neglect other important aspects of life. Whether it’s missing out on family time, your social life, or even just some much-needed self-care, the consequences of a poor work-life balance are both immediate and long-lasting. Physical exhaustion, increased stress, and strained relationships are just a few of the challenges you might face.
Flexibility at Its Best
If you’re looking for a way to maintain a career in hospitality without sacrificing your personal life, our relief positions for Chefs and Front of House could be the perfect fit for you. These roles offer the flexibility to work around your schedule, whether you need to take care of family commitments, pursue a hobby, or simply take a break. Imagine being able to take a holiday or attend a family event without the guilt or stress of work looming over you. With Ginger Hospitality’s relief positions, that’s not just possible; it’s a reality.
Stability Without Compromise
If it’s long-term stability you’re after, but you don’t want to compromise on your personal life, look no further than our permanent recruitment services. We offer a range of positions across the hospitality sector, ensuring that we find a role that fits not just your professional skills but also your lifestyle needs. You don’t have to choose between a rewarding career and a fulfilling personal life; with Ginger Hospitality, you can have both.
Finding the perfect work-life balance in the hospitality industry might seem like a daunting task, but with Ginger Hospitality, it’s more achievable than you think. Our relief and permanent positions are designed with you—the candidate—in mind, aiming to provide you with the best of both worlds. So why settle for less when you can have it all? Reach out to Ginger Hospitality today and take the first step towards a more balanced, fulfilling life.
The founder of the Cheese Bar in London is to open his first restaurant outside the capital this autumn.
Mathew Carver will launch Rind next door to award-winning cheese shop the Courtyard Dairy near Settle in North Yorkshire.
He has teamed up with Andy Swinscoe, the Courtyard Dairy’s founder, to open a 40-cover cheese-focused restaurant.
It will serve wood-fired pizza, natural wine, and British cheese boards across lunch and dinner.
Dishes will include a half Lancashire, half Wensleydale pizza as well as an ever-changing selection of baked cheeses.
The restaurant will be housed in an old falconry centre and feature views over Ingleborough, the second highest mountain in Yorkshire.
“I’ve been a fan boy of Andy and the Courtyard Dairy since I got into British cheese nearly 10 years ago,” said Carver.
“His ethos on promoting and championing farm-made cheese and supporting our rural economies is so in line with our own values, I couldn’t think of anyone I’d rather have as our new neighbour.
“We aim to create restaurants that inspire us as a team and the opportunity to open a pizza restaurant with the most incredible views imaginable certainly does that.”
Carver started out selling grilled cheese sandwiches from a food truck at festivals in 2014 and opened his first restaurant, the Cheese Bar, in Camden in 2017. A second site with a rotating conveyor belt of cheese, Pick & Cheese, opened in London’s Seven Dials in 2017 and was followed by floating canal boat restaurant the Cheese Barge in Paddington Basin in 2021.
Welcome to a fresh week of Where Ginger Goes! This week, join us as we dive into a weekend of diverse experiences, from music festivals and boat adventures to tantalizing food and heartwarming traditions. Our team members had a blast under the sun, exploring different corners of the UK and creating unforgettable memories.
Jack’s weekend was a musical delight as he attended the Summertime live music festival in Cheltenham. Basking in the sun, Jack and his friends enjoyed performances by the Classic Ibiza Orchestra and other talented acts like Artful Dodger and Sonique. The festival not only offered great live music but also tantalizing street food vendors and bars, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere.
Josh’s weekend took him to the charming city of Plymouth. After a scrumptious breakfast at Jolly Jack’s, he set off on a boat trip to Fowey. Along the way, he was treated to a beautiful surprise when dolphins gracefully swam alongside his boat, making the journey truly magical.
Craig’s sunny weekend was filled with local delights and events. Starting at the Glasshouse Café in Ribchester’s Stydd Gardens, he relished a tapas night featuring Spanish and Mexican small plates. From Estrella Battered King Prawns to Calamari, the flavours transported Craig to distant shores.
With the sun shining brightly, Craig couldn’t resist a visit to Farm on the Fell, where he indulged in a cooling black cherry ice cream and a delicious milkshake. These treats were a refreshing way to beat the heat and enjoy the weekend.
Ribble Valley Duck Race
Craig’s weekend concluded with a heartwarming village tradition – a duck race on the river Ribble. The excitement of the race brought the community together, and Craig congratulated the winner for their triumphant duck.
From music and boat adventures to mouthwatering treats and community traditions, this week’s journey is a testament to the diversity of experiences that Where Ginger Goes embraces. Stay tuned for more captivating stories as we continue to explore and share the joy of these weekend escapades
