The UK recognises the work of outstanding Spanish restaurateurs

Chef José Pizarro and restaurant owner Abel Lusa recognised with major awards by celebrated UK publications

06/02/2012

José Pizarro, ‘On-trade Personality of the year’ in the wine and hospitality category

The 1st edition of the Harpers Awards, launched by the prestigious UK trade magazine of the same name, had a markedly Spanish flavour given that Spanish chef José Pizarro, owner of two restaurants in the UK capital, was named ‘On-trade Personality of the year’ in the wine and hospitality category. In turn, Spanish restaurateur, Abel Lusa, who owns five restaurants in London, was also named ‘On-trade Personality of the Year 2012’ by the renowned UK publication, The Drinks Business.

Both awards represent well-deserved recognition for the effort and work carried out over more than two decades in the UK capital by the two Spaniards; avid promoters of Spanish wine and cuisine on the English-speaking market.

The Harpers Awards were held in conjunction with The London International Wine Fair, in London's Honourable Artillery Company and brought together wine trade professionals from all areas of the industry. Awards were handed out in three key sections, which Harpers has named: ‘At your service’ for the hospitality sector, ‘Top Merchants’ for independent wine merchants, and ‘Industry Awards’ for suppliers and retailers.

Of the six ‘At your service’ awards handed out only two went to trade professionals while the rest were awarded to the best establishments in the hotel, restaurant and bar categories. As well as Pizarro, Emily O'Hare of The River Café was also recognised as the Best Sommelier/Front of House award.

In addition to his latest recognition Abel Lusa also has to add his appointment, last February, as a ‘Caballero del Vino Español’ (Spanish Wine Knight), an honour given by the ‘Gran Orden de Caballeros del Vino’ (Noble Order of Spanish Wine Knights) for his long track record as a promoter of Spanish wines and cuisine in the UK.