ARDROSSAN’S Cecchini’s has made the shortlist for this year’s Scottish Italian Awards.

The restaurant has been nominated as a finalist for Best Trattoria in the fifth annual awards.

The Cecchini Group has also been nominated for best Multiple Operator and Best Marketing Campaign. And Cecchini’s in Ayr was nominated as Best Family Friendly Restaurant Other Ayrshire nominees include Ayr’s Quattro Venti for Best Deli/Cafe and Best Barista, Quei Bravi Ragazzi, Troon, for Best Newcomer and Best Pasta and The Wee Plaice, Largs for Best Fish and Chips.

Over 100,000 votes were counted in this year’s awards. The Scottish Italian Awards were created to recognise the significant contribution of Italian restaurants to the Scottish hospitality industry.

More than 1500 restaurants engaged with the 2017 competition but the votes whittled it down to just 93 finalists. Aldo Zilli, celebrity chef and Italian Awards ambassador, will once again lead the judging of the live cook offs. Finalists are in all categories are invited to the annual Gala Final on November 12 at the Glasgow Hilton.

Capital FM presenter and funnyman Des Clarke returns to host this milestone event, this year joined by his Capital Breakfast co-host Amy Irons.