A North Yorkshire restaurant has been shortlisted in the 2025 National Restaurant Awards.
Pignut, the acclaimed Helmsley restaurant founded by Tom and Laurissa Heywood, has made the shortlist for the Sustainability Award – in recognition of the couple’s commitment to ethical and environmental responsibility.
The award, judged by the Sustainable Restaurant Association, is part of the National Restaurant Awards, and is among the most prestigious accolades in the UK’s culinary calendar.
It is organised by Restaurant magazine.
The awards recognise the very best chefs, restaurants and hospitality professionals across the country, with a judging panel comprising over 200 chefs, restaurateurs and food writers.
“We are so happy to have received the recognition by the National Restaurant Awards,” said Tom and Laurissa.
“It really means a lot to us both and motivates us even more to continue doing what we are doing. Hopefully we can inspire people and other restaurants to find a way to be more sustainable to support British farmers and businesses as much as we can.
“A massive thanks to all our local suppliers who really influence the menu . We couldn’t do it without them.”
The Sustainability Award celebrates a UK restaurant going above and beyond to reduce its environmental impact and drive meaningful change across the food system. Pignut was commended for its hyper-local menus, regenerative supply chains, zero-waste ethos and carbon-neutral status.
Since opening in 2023, Pignut has earned recognition for its modern British tasting menus and ensuring that every detail – from refillable wine bottles to reclaimed tables – reflects a sustainable mindset.
This upcoming July, the restaurant will relocate to Scawton, taking over the Hare at Scawton site.
The recognition also follows a string of recent accolades for the duo – including Three AA Rosettes, a Michelin Guide recommendation, and a place in the 360° Eat Guide for its commitment to sustainable gastronomy.
Find out more about Pignut at their website here.