A SPECIALTY meatball and craft beer bar has been made a finalist in an award scheme dedicated to the casual dining industry.

The Yorkshire Meatball Co, in Harrogate and York, is one of five restaurants competing for an award in the independent casual dining restaurant of the year category at the Casual Dining Restaurant and Pub Awards.

The restaurant is the only finalist from the region across the award’s 12 categories, which cover everything from new concepts, employee engagement, marketing and design.

The Yorkshire Meatball Co, run by father and son David and Gareth Atkinson, has become renowned for its unique flavours, excellent quality food and its commitment to local Yorkshire craft beer and ales.

The awards, which form part of the Casual Dining Trade Show, will take place at The Grange St Paul’s Hotel in London on February 24.