Wakefield’s hospitality scene took centre stage as businesses, teams and individuals came together for an unforgettable evening at the Best Bar None Awards 2026, hosted at the DIY Kitchens Stadium, home of Wakefield Trinity RLFC.
A celebration of excellence across the city’s night-time economy, the awards recognised the venues and people who continue to raise standards, create outstanding experiences and help make Wakefield a fantastic place to go out.
From the first arrivals to the final applause, the atmosphere throughout the evening reflected everything that makes Wakefield’s hospitality sector so special. It was a night full of pride, personality and well-earned celebration, bringing together businesses from across the city to recognise the people and places raising the bar.
Best Bar None is a nationally recognised accreditation scheme supported by the Home Office, designed to promote responsible management and raise standards across the night-time economy. In Wakefield, it continues to champion best practice, recognise excellence and support a safer, stronger and more welcoming city centre after dark.
Celebrating this year’s winners
Rustico Italian Restaurant was named Public Choice Best Restaurant, recognised for its quality dining experience, atmosphere and continued popularity with customers.
Connor Mason received the Public Choice Team Member of the Year award, celebrating the dedication, energy and personal service that individuals bring to the city’s hospitality scene every day.
The Black Horse was awarded Best Pub, while The Strafford Arms took home Best Multiple Operator. Supper Club was recognised as Best Bar, and Dolce Vita won Best First Impressions for setting the tone from the moment guests arrive.
One of the evening’s most special moments saw Paul Woodcock receive the Special Recognition Award, honouring his outstanding contribution to Wakefield’s hospitality sector.
Full list of winners below.
Public Choice Award Winners
Judging Panel Awards
These winners represent the very best of Wakefield’s hospitality sector, delivering exceptional experiences and setting the standard for others to follow.
Recognising excellence across Wakefield
Alongside this year’s award winners, a total of 25 businesses across Wakefield city centre were recognised on the night for achieving their Best Bar None accreditation and Pride in Wakefield Award. These venues demonstrate a shared commitment to high standards, responsible management and creating a safe, welcoming environment for customers.
- The Hop
- Panda Mami
- Rustico Italian Restaurant
- Shakespeares Showbar
- Popworld
- The Black Horse
- Venue 23
- The New Union
- The Six Chimneys
- Calder and Hops
- O’Connor’s Irish Tavern
- Iris
- Claw Club
- Dolce Vita
- Supper Club
- Counting House
- Brick & Liquor
- Jam Lounge
- Grind Cafe Bar
- Patio Cafe Bar
- Blind Pig
- The Union Bank
- The Strafford Arms
- The Griffin
- Theatre Royal Wakefield
A night to remember
This was more than an awards evening. It was a celebration of the people behind the bar, on the floor, in the kitchen and behind the scenes, the people whose hard work shapes Wakefield’s evening economy and keeps standards high across the city.
A huge thank you to everyone who entered, attended and helped make the evening such a success.
Wakefield BID would also like to thank Wakefield Trinity Events, Rhubarb Radio, Phantom Productions, KRAFT Media and Urban Spark Group for their valued support in bringing the event to life.
