Scrummies Scoops Fast Food Award
by Patricia Montgomery, LincsMag Writer.
Date: 16 November 2011
Scrummies, an independent fast-food shop in Horncastle, Lincolnshire, which has only been open for eight months, has won top spot as best takeaway in the East Midlands at an awards ceremony this month.
Owner and chef Phil Cantwell, who launched the unusual concept of combining traditional homemade British food in the day and authentic fresh Thai food in the evenings, collected his award from Michelin star celebrity chef Jean-Christophe Novelli.
The Food and Drink Awards East Midlands, sponsored by Long Clawson Dairy Ltd, was launched for the first time this year to recognise the quality food and drink from across the region (from Skegness and Sleaford to Peterborough and Stamford) with the selected finalists going through to compete for the top title.
Satisfied Customers
The winners were voted for via texts and post from satisfied customers with the awards, presented by East Midlands Newspapers Ltd taking place at a celebration dinner at the Greetham Valley Hotel in Oakham.
Phil Cantwell, originally from New Zealand, came up with the concept of Scrummies after spending time living in Thailand.
“We strive to use authentic, fresh produce flown in from Thailand combined with the best of local ingredients to create top quality food at reasonable prices,” said Phil. “Thank you to all our loyal customers for all their support over the past few months – we’re looking forward to launching more innovative ideas on our menus in the coming months!”
Trained Chef
Interested in why the name, "Scrummies", LincsMag have found it was so named so as to reflect not only the great food on offer, but also Phil’s passion and interest in rugby!
Phil trained as a chef originally, but then went to work in finance for blue chip companies in UK and abroad. He retired in January and decided to return to his passion for food and opened Scrummies in February 2011.
Food has always been a big passion and interest for Phil, who has always enjoyed cooking and helping to organise friends’ parties and special occasions, so it was the obvious choice to go into the food business to fulfil a long time ambition.
Quality of Life
Phil originally came to UK in 1987, after having lived in many places in Europe and also spending time in Thailand (hence his passion for Asian cuisine). He moved to Lincolnshire eight years ago in search of a better quality of life and beautiful countryside, much like New Zealand and the area around Horncastle certainly has that with beautiful views from the edge of the Wolds!
Phil loves the quality of the local produce and the passion people have for well cooked, home made food. The feedback from customers has been fantastic and so many regulars are asking for new dishes which Phil enjoys creating. It's easy to see why Scrummies is a winner!
