A RESTAURANT has been named the best in Cheshire for the second year running.
Giuliano Ristorante in Handforth has once again been crowned the county’s best restaurant at the Englands Business Awards.
Owner Lulzim Culaj says the restaurant has seen a huge spike in customers since claiming the prize in 2023.
“We have definitely seen an increase in customers,” he said.
“Every time new people come in we tell them about the award and they all agree that it is no coincidence we won.
“We are over the moon to have won again.
“It’s easy to get to the top and stay there, but to be recognised again is amazing.”
Lulzim added: “I was confident we could win again because of what we do here.
“Our guests can expect a very warm welcome and a nice ambience. When it comes to food, the only way to find out is to try it for themselves!”
REVIEW: 'Cheshire's best restaurant' - Giuliano in Handforth
To keep up with the rise in demanding since winning the 2023 prize, Giuliano has opened a new upstairs dining area.
They have also redecorated the outdoor area, completing the work earlier this month.
Lulzim said: “Of course, since winning last year we have tried to improve. When you win that sort of title it can be dangerous because people have higher expectations.
“They come with higher expectations and we have managed to continue to meet them, that’s why this year’s award feels a bit more special.”
He added: “We ended up turning people away every week so we thought, why not use this space (upstairs)?
“Now nearly every weekend it is full up there, including this weekend coming. It’s fantastic!”
The England Business Awards are decided by a public vote and a mystery diner visit.
Lulzim and the Giuliano team picked up the 2024 Cheshire title at the regional ceremony in Manchester on Sunday (July 14).
All of the winners from across the country will then be entered for the national award.
Giuliano fell just short last year but Lulzim is confident of bringing home the top prize this time round.
He said: “We missed out last year at the grand finals but I'm really confident that this year we are going to do it.
“For now we are just going to enjoy this moment and look forward to the big one because that is our aim.”
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