AN ALLOA restaurant has been shortlisted in the best family restaurant category at this year’s Scottish Entertainment and Hospitality Awards.

Bar Aldo’s, which sits on the town’s Coalgate, will go up against four other contestants for the prize.

The public decided on the finalists for this year’s awards with a record number of votes being cast online.

They face competition from Anatolia in Glasgow, Gigi’s in Bonnyrigg, Rigatoni’s in Edinburgh and Room in Largs.

Fiorinda Pia, who runs the thriving restaurant with her husband Aldo, said: “We’re over the moon with the nomination, it’s brilliant to get into the top five.

“It’s all been down to the customers; they are the ones who have voted for us and they have always backed us and given their support.

“We’re up against some really big restaurants in Edinburgh and Glasgow, so for a small restaurant like us to be in there is a big achievement.

“It’s all down to the judges now, but we’ve got our fingers crossed.” The Aldo’s staff have been informed that mystery dinners will visit the restaurant soon, if they haven’t already.

They have previously won the best family category at the Scottish Italian awards, along with a nomination for best team at the same event.

Now they are hoping to pick up the win at the Scottish Entertainment and Hospitality Awards with the winners to be announced at a glittering awards bash at the Thistle Hotel in Glasgow later this month.

Awards CEO Warren Paul said: “We have had over 60,000 votes this year which is phenomenal, and we’ve had huge public engagement especially in our newest categories.

“We’re very excited to welcome some new blood to the competition from all over the country and reward the best of the best in the Scottish entertainment and hospitality sector.” The event, now in its fourth year, rewards innovation, customer service and excellence in bartending.

There are a total of 18 award categories including best mixologist, best ‘gay friendly’ venue and best wedding venue.

Around 750 industry professionals will attend the gala awards night later this month, where Aldo’s will hope to edge out the competition on the night.