TWO Dorset restaurants have been crowned winners at the British Takeaway Awards. 

Following a public vote earlier this year and a rigorous judging process the winners were announced at Monday night’s awards, September 6, hosted by comedian Paddy McGuinness in London.

The awards saw V.Dorset  Delivery take home the title of the ‘Best Takeaway in the South West’ and  Nuudle Bar was crowned the ‘Best Small Restaurant Chain’ in the UK.

Famous for its meat-free delights, such as Southern Fried Seitan, V. Dorset Delivery has made a splash in the South West over the course of the pandemic, developing from a mobile catering service into a successful delivery business. They impressed the judges with their innovative dishes which sought to celebrate vegan and vegetarian cuisine rather than imitate meat. 

READ MORE: Nuudle Bar to open on Christchurch Road, Iford next month

READ MORE: Two Poole restaurants shortlisted in British Takeaway Awards

As well as providing delicious food, V. Dorset Delivery has become a pillar in its local community, as they support local charities ranging from hospitals to Hedgehog rescue and even set up a not-for-profit community store providing essentials to many.

Owners Keri Astill-Frew said: “We didn’t know we were going to win the award until the night when they read our name out - I was in complete shock. 

“My husband (Dan) and I have worked so hard since we first opened our business and this really does mean the world to us. 

“It was all worthwhile anyway, because we love what we do, but getting recognition like this really is special.

Bournemouth Echo:

V.Dorset Delivery takeaway boxes (Facebook). 

“We are absolutely thrilled to have been crowned the best delivery in the South West. 

“Through our menu we have always sought to show just how delicious meat free food is, and have strained to find vegetarian and vegan-friendly foods, even making them ourselves when needed.

“We would of course be nowhere without the help of our extensive support network of family, friends and neighbours; as well as our brilliant employees - so we want to thank them for all of their help.”

Winner of the ‘Best Small Takeaway Chain’, Nuudle Bar has restaurants in Bournemouth, Poole, Iford, Southampton, Winchester and London’s Shoreditch. 

Owner and chef of 20 years Tak Ho impressed the judges with his menu allowing for thousands of dish combinations, and fast expansion, opening six sites in just 16 months.

As well as providing delicious food, Nuudle Bar works with SOBO local Community group and Bournemouth University students, providing mentoring and provides free food to a homeless charity, run by Lansdowne Baptist Church.

Tak commented: “We’re so pleased to have made a positive impact on the takeaway industry, particularly after a challenging time for most small chain restaurants.

"We’d like to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone that continued to support us from our hardworking staff to our wonderful customers. We love what we do and are thankful to be recognised.”