People and venues across the UK are competing for the reputable GQ Food and Drink Award - and there are three locals among the shortlisted positions.
Best Bartender Award
The award-winning and widely talked about mixologist Kat Whyte from Uno Mas bar is shortlisted for the Best Bartender Award and is sure to make a tough competition. Kat and her fellow mixologist Sian Buchan opened Uno Mas, Edinburgh New Town's late-night venue featuring live music and top-quality cocktails, back in March 2020.
Thinking about the award, Kat said: "It’s truly an honour to be included in the first-ever best bartender category at this year's awards, I’ve followed the other incredibly talented bartenders on this list since the beginning of my career and to be amongst them is utterly mind-blowing and I thank everyone who has supported me on my journey thus far.
"This industry is finally gaining recognition for the hard-working professionals behind the scenes and it’s an honour to be a part of it."
What was a hard time for many turned out to be an excellent beginning for the bar, with it quickly becoming one of the capital's top go-to spots for a perfect drink and vibrant atmosphere.
Music is the venue's signature bit, and they even have a SoundCloud playlist of their own. So if you are ever not sure if the place is right for you, try the playlist, and you are sure to fall for the vibe.
Best Chef Award
Thanks to his culinary skills, James Murray, the chef of family-run modern British restaurant Timberyard, located in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town, is shortlisted for the Best Chef award.
Timberyard is a popular dining destination with the rustic charm of its 19th-century ex-warehouse building adding to its attractiveness. Proudly supporting local suppliers, the diner puts fresh Scottish produce at the heart of its top-standard dishes.
James joined Timberyard in September 2021. Introducing the new Head Chef to the guests, the venue bosses wrote on the restaurant's website: "James' style has often been described as hyper-seasonal and ingredient-led. He uses traditional cooking methods and techniques to create bold and harmonious flavours and dishes."
Timberyard is featured on the prestigious Michelin Guide website, with it saying: "Trendy warehouse restaurant; its spacious, rustic interior incorporating wood-burning stoves. The Scandic-influenced menu offers 'bites', 'small' and 'large' sizes, with some home-smoked ingredients and an emphasis on distinct, punchy flavours."
Best Breakthrough Award
Overlooking picturesque Water of Leith, Heron offers a minimalistic yet stylish interior so that nothing can distract you from the exceptional dishes they serve.
The modern Scottish restaurant was open at a record speed in July 2021 and has already made it to the Michelin Guide, with the acclaimed critics saying: "Cool, modern furnishings sit beneath an ornate period ceiling and floor-to-ceiling windows make the most of the view. Confidently prepared dishes follow a less-is-more approach, and flavour combinations are appealing."
