A low-key and cosy eatery in a market town has been crowned Best Pasta Restaurant at the Italian Awards 2026, putting the Derbyshire hidden gem on the culinary map
The authentic restaurant is known for being small and cosy (Image: A Tavola Gastronomia Siciliana)
Italian cuisine is always a firm favourite when it comes to dining out but what you might not realise is that some of the finest examples can be found right on your doorstep.
In what has essentially become the Oscars of the Italian hospitality world, the Italian Awards 2026 took place recently, celebrating the very best pizza, pasta, restaurants and cafés across the UK.
And in a fiercely competitive category, the winner of Best Pasta Restaurant turned out to be a hidden gem nestled in New Mills, High Peak, Derbyshire.
A Tavola Gastronomia Siciliana, the authentic Italian eatery, claimed the coveted prize – and will no doubt see a wave of curious food lovers descend upon them as a result.
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Led by award-winning chef Alessio Muccio, the restaurant takes great pride in producing fresh pasta, gelato and pastries on the premises, using traditional Sicilian ingredients.
Their website states: “Our restaurant is small and cosy and adorned with Sicilian artefacts; it’s a little slice of Sicily here in the High Peak.”
One delighted customer left a glowing review on TripAdvisor, saying: “A Tavola is a colourful, warm, and welcoming trattoria located in the dark, cold, wintery heart of the Peak District.
“Highly recommended for those longing for those rich Sicilian flavours but far from the light and abundance of the Bel Paese. Sicilian sweet and sour flavours are present in many dishes, from pistachio and fennel to sardines with pine nuts and raisins.”
Another reviewer said: “What a wonderful restaurant! A lucky find as we were looking for somewhere to eat before going to hear some live music nearby. Very friendly staff, delicious food and a convivial ambience.
“I only wish it were not over 100 miles from my home. I highly recommend a visit, especially if you are missing being in Italy! You will be transported!”
The Derbyshire eatery bills itself as a ‘labour of love’ from the chef, who has crafted a menu designed to accommodate all dietary needs. What’s more, his specials change with the seasons to guarantee fresh and seasonal ingredients year-round.
These touches haven’t gone unnoticed by diners, with one writing: “Absolutely fantastic food and service. From start to finish totally delicious. Thanks so much. Can’t wait to go back. 5 stars!”
It’s an unexpected location to discover authentic, mouthwatering Italian pasta, nestled in a market town, but it’s definitely worth stopping by while exploring the Peak District.
The restaurant sits on Albion Road, New Mills, High Peak, roughly eight miles south-east of Stockport and just 13 miles from Manchester.
While it might seem somewhat off the beaten track, it wasn’t quite concealed enough to escape the notice of the Italian Awards, which bestowed upon it the recognition its patrons believe it richly deserves.
Awards Director Warren Paul, discussing the launch of the Italian Awards for 2026, expressed his delight in celebrating the efforts of “passionate people”. He added: “That’s why we do what we do.
“It’s to make sure the hard-working inspirational people and businesses get the recognition they deserve.
“Everyone jumps to criticise and leave a negative review or complaint over the tiniest thing, but very few rush to praise good service, food and experiences. That’s where we come in. So congratulations to our winners.”
Highly Recommended restaurants in the same category included:
- Italian Touch By Ivano Pizzeria & Ristorante (Bedford)
- Mele e Pere (London)
- Primavista (Bury St Edmunds)
- Shambles Restaurant & Winebar (Teddington)
- The Kettlebridge Inn, Bar & Italian Restaurant (Cupar)
- A Tavola Gastronomia Siciliana (New Mills)