Scotland’s YAYAS Competes for UK’s Best Takeaway Title

Scotland’s top takeaway, YAYAS, is vying for the title of the best takeaway in the UK, as revealed by food delivery company Uber Eats. The establishment, located on Paisley Road West in Glasgow’s Cardonald area, has made it onto the shortlist of twelve finalists for this year’s Restaurant of the Year Awards. The winner will be announced in March 2024.

YAYAS is celebrated for its unique offerings, including German doner kebabs and peri peri chicken. The restaurant is part of a competitive field, with a total of 130 establishments initially nominated. Fans across the UK have been voting for their favourite takeaways, and now, one restaurant from each region has been selected to compete for the coveted title.

Finalists from Across the UK

The finalists represent a diverse array of culinary styles. From Scotland, YAYAS will face off against:

• Sanjugo from London, which boasts an impressive rating of 4.8 out of 5 on Google Reviews and is known for its sushi.
• Silver’s Deli from Yorkshire.
• Burg N Ice from the North West, offering smashed burgers and sweet treats.
• Sushi Me Rollin’ from the North East, recognized for its creative sushi offerings.
• Taqi’s Grill from the West Midlands, specializing in Cajun chargrilled dishes.
• Sharkbite Burgers from Wales, famous for its giant burgers.
• Low & Slow from the South West, known for its expertly smoked meats.
• Wok & Grill from the East Midlands & Anglia, featuring a fusion of Indo-Chinese cuisine.
• Seed from Northern Ireland.
• Urban Health from Ireland.

The winner will receive a substantial prize of £100,000 to invest in their business, while all finalists will be awarded £5,000 and tailored support packages from Uber Eats.

Judging and Support for Small Businesses

The judging panel includes renowned figures such as Levi Roots, Clodagh McKenna, and the 2024 Restaurant of the Year winner, Natty Crutchfield. The focus on independent restaurants underscores the significance of small and medium-sized enterprises in the UK and Ireland’s food scene, with over 60 per cent of restaurants on the Uber Eats platform falling into this category.

Matthew Price, general manager of Uber Eats in the UK, Ireland, and Northern Europe, expressed the importance of these establishments, stating, “Independent restaurants are the beating heart of the UK and Ireland’s food scene.” He emphasized the role these restaurants play in enriching local communities by providing flavor, jobs, and cultural experiences.

The competition not only highlights the culinary talents of takeaways across the UK but also reflects the growing trend of consumers supporting local businesses. As the countdown to the announcement in March 2024 begins, anticipation builds for which restaurant will claim the title of the UK’s finest takeaway.