A Bognor Regis restaurant is celebrating after being named among the finalists in one of the UK's biggest food industry awards, just eight months after reopening its doors.
The Mezze Restaurant, located at 3 The Arcade in Bognor Regis town centre, has secured a place in the finals of the 15th British Kebab Awards 2027.
The independent restaurant is competing for the prestigious title of Best Kebab Restaurant – South of England, putting it up against some of the region's best-known establishments.
The achievement is particularly significant for the business, which reopened in February 2026 and has since been working to rebuild its reputation and establish itself as a popular destination for diners.
This year's British Kebab Awards attracted more than 6,000 nominations from across the country, with almost 500 businesses reaching the semi-final stage.
Organisers have confirmed that 283 finalists have been selected across 22 categories, highlighting the level of competition facing restaurants hoping to secure a national award.
For the team behind The Mezze, reaching the final is already a major achievement.
Restaurant co-owner Serkan said staff had worked extremely hard since reopening, with a focus on delivering quality food, creating employment opportunities and building a business that local residents can be proud of.
The restaurant has also achieved a five-star food hygiene rating and received a Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice Award for 2026, according to its owners.
The latest recognition has now given the team an opportunity to represent Bognor Regis on the national stage.
The British Kebab Awards, established in 2013, celebrate the contribution of restaurants, takeaways, chefs and businesses within the UK's kebab industry.
Finalists are assessed using a combination of public votes, food hygiene ratings, customer reviews, endorsements and independent judging.
With the restaurant now through to the final stage, its owners are hoping the Bognor Regis community will get behind their bid to bring the award back to the town.
Public voting is open until 31 January 2027, giving customers and supporters the opportunity to help The Mezze compete for the title.
The winners will be revealed at a national awards ceremony at Park Plaza Westminster Bridge in London on Tuesday 23 February 2027.
The restaurant will be hoping to finish its first year since reopening with one of the industry's most sought-after awards.
Residents wishing to support The Mezze can vote through the official British Kebab Awards website.
The restaurant's nomination can also be viewed on the official 2027 finalists page.
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