AN East Renfrewshire restaurant has been hailed in the House of Commons after receiving three nominations in the Scottish Italian Awards.

Nonna Gina’s in Newton Mearns was recognised in Westminster thanks to a motion lodged by local MP Paul Masterton.

The eatery finished runner-up in the Best Barista category, while also being nominated for Best Pasta and Best Cuoco.

The motion read: “That this House congratulates Nonna Gina’s of Newton Mearns, East Renfrewshire, for being named as a finalist at the Scottish Italian Awards 2018 in three separate categories; praises the hard work of owners and managers, Gianni di Meo, Mariangela Marini and Giancarlo Bernacchi, head chef Andrea Arzenton and all the staff for making the restaurant one of the stand-out destinations in the West of Scotland; notes that the family-run business also won best loved ristorante at the 2018 Italian Food Awards Scotland; and wishes all at Nonna Gina’s every success in the future as the restaurant continues to go from strength to strength.”

Paul Masterton, MP for East Renfrewshire, said: “I would like to offer a massive congratulations to Gianni, Mariangela, Gioncarlo, Andrea and the whole team at Nonna Gina’s in Newton Mearns for their hard work and success. 

“It is always great to see East Renfrewshire businesses succeeding on the national stage and being rewarded for their hard work.

“I would encourage anyone who has not popped in for a spot of lunch or a coffee to do so. You won’t regret it.”

Gianni Di Meo, manager, added: “I would just like to thank Paul Masterton on behalf of myself and all of my staff. 

“It’s so good to be recognised for our hard work that we all put in. 

“I would also like to thank my customers though because without their loyalty it wouldn’t be achievable.”