CULINARY prowess at two Kendal businesses has been recognised after they won The Westmorland Gazette’s prestigious foodie competition.

More than 500 people voted in the Restaurant and Cafe of the Year 2014 competition, which saw traditional pub Romneys win the best restaurant title, and The 2 Sisters Cafe win best cafe.

The pair fought off other businesses in the area to get the top spot based on everything from service, locally-sourced produce in dishes and atmosphere.

Romneys Manager James Heap said: “We’re really pleased that the customers enjoy it and really proud because everybody works so hard to make it the best it can be.

“We do exceptionally good quality food at reasonable prices. There’s a great atmosphere and I don’t think we could win it on just the food alone, it’s a team effort.”

Mr Heap added that the Kendal pub had gone from ‘strength to strength’ since it opened in September 2012.

The other food favourite was The 2 Sisters Cafe, set up by siblings Monika Loranc and Magda Krajewska three years ago at Plumgarths Farm Shop.

Mrs Loranc said: “We were very happy and surprised about it as we compete with such big places, but it’s very nice for us. We’ve got such lovely customers who help us and make us feel very welcome.”

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Mrs Loranc runs the business with her sister and her husband is the chef.

“I was really scared at the beginning, especially as English is my second language after Polish, but we managed and we’re doing very well and now I’m feeling confident.”

Mrs Loranc even has plans for expansion: “It would be my dream to open another cafe in Bowness or Windermere, hopefully in about three or four years.”