A Bolton restaurant is in the finals of the prestigious UK Italian Awards.

The public were asked to vote for their favourite Italian venues/businesses across the country, and Leo’s Italian Restaurant on Chorley New Road was a top choice.

The popular restaurant is up for three awards for best pasta chef, best family friendly restaurant, and best restaurant in the North West.

Owner and manager Albi Nusgalliu says she is so happy that her business has made it to this stage, and she is hugely grateful for the support.

said: “We learnt about the Italian Awards through our chef and few other restaurants that participated before.

The Bolton News:

“It is our first time to take place in a competition of this scale (UK level) and it brings us happiness to make it to the final.

“Being chosen as a finalist is solely based on votes from customers, thus we are deeply grateful for the great support.

“It is an honour to be competing in three categories.”

The restaurant will be visited by our panel of esteemed independent judges and scored accordingly.

The Bolton News: Owner and manager Albi NusgalliuOwner and manager Albi Nusgalliu (Image: Newsquest)

Winners will be announced at a glittering ceremony.

Albi said: “We are now looking forward to the judges' visit and the cook off competition for best pasta chef. 

“Me and the team are delighted with the results because hard work always pays off.

“We are back open for the customers after our holiday, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone.

“A big thank you for all the support.”

The well-established restaurant recently underwent a makeover, which included changing its name from Rocco’s Italian Restaurant back to Leo’s.

The bathroom also had a touch up, with new flooring and paint.

Albi and her family took charge of the eatery in July last year after always dreaming of running a business.

If you have a story and something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at jasmine.jackson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @JournoJasmine.