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Pizza chefs from two Lanarkshire eateries are preparing for a nationwide cook-off as they compete for the title of Scotland’s best pizza. Quintilianis in Larkhall and Cotto Via in Wishaw are among 35 finalists from across the country to be taking part in the hotly-contested live challenge to crown the winner of the prestigious category at this year’s Scottish Italian awards. They are among 10 Lanarkshire finalists at next month’s gala awards ceremony in Glasgow, competing in categories including best pasta, gelateria, fish and chips and best restaurant and business titles. Quintiliani’s is shortlisted in four categories, with their pizza nomination supplemented by further finalist places in the categories of Scotland’s best family-run business, best fish and chip and best team. Cotto Via is also nominated in the family-run section, as is Da Antonio in Hamilton – while there are four Lanarkshire contenders for the title of Scotland’s best pasta, with both Cotto Via and Da Antonio shortlisted once again alongside Ristorante La Vigna in Lanark and Arigo in East Kilbride. Arigo has three nominations, having also reached the list of finalists for best team and Scotland’s best family-friendly restaurant. Leonardo’s in Hamilton also nominated in the latter category and for best restaurant manager.. Hamilton restaurant Rocca is shortlisted in the category of best restaurant in the west of Scotland; while the town’s new spot, Sofia by Santa Lucia, is nominated for best newcomer. Mancini’s Street Food in Wishaw is also nominated for the best fish and chips award alongside Quintiliani’s; and Airdrie-based The Capocci Man is shortlisted for the title of Scotland’s best gelateria. The Lanarkshire favourites have reached the final thanks to public votes, with more than 120,000 being cast online in the 12th annual awards – which celebrate “the very best of Italian food and culture” and are described as “a guide to the best food in the country”. Now the pizza finalists and all the local favourites will be competing to impress a judging panel led by celebrity chef Aldo Zilli, along with experts from the UK Pizza Federation and Warren’s experienced local panel. Awards director Warren Paul said of the public voting: “We’ve been inundated, so making it to the finalist spots is a bigger honour than ever before. With over 120,000 public votes pouring in to help us find the best of the best, it’s clear Scotland’s people want to ensure their favourites are recognised. “The people have spoken, and they’ve spoken loud – this list of finalists really is a guide to the absolute pinnacle. There’s amazing food being produced every day in every town, city, village in Scotland showcasing the best of Italy.” He added: “The awards gala dinner is an annual celebration of everything that links Scotland and Italy together, and is an opportunity [for finalists] to reflect on their achievements and give real recognition to teams who have helped navigate hard times and good times alike.” *Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here . And did you know Lanarkshire Live had its own app? Download yours for free here .
