Giuliano Italian restaurant in Handforth named England's best

Giuliano in Handforth was beaten stiff competition to be named the Nation’s Favourite Restaurant at the Englands Business Awards.

This achievement marks the pinnacle of five years of dedication and hard work by the entire Giuliano team.

Owner Lulzim Culaj said: "Winning this award is a dream come true.

“We work hard to provide exceptional service, delicious food, and a warm atmosphere, but this recognition goes beyond that.

“Receiving national acclaim for all our efforts is truly the icing on the cake.

“We want to thank our loyal customers who voted for us in huge numbers and look forward to celebrating with them in the weeks to come."

REVIEW: 'Cheshire's best restaurant' - Giuliano in Handforth

Giuliano on Wilmslow Road, Handforth (Image: NQ)

In 2019, Lulzim took the reins of what was then a struggling eatery, despite having no experience of the industry.

Since then, he has managed to completely turn things around.

Last year, Giuliano was named the best restaurant in Cheshire at the Englands Business Awards, a feat they repeated in 2024.

The award led to a huge surge in customers, with Giuliano refurbishing the outdoor area and opening a new upstairs dining room to accommodate the increased demand.

Today, Giuliano is the top-rated restaurant in Handforth on Trip Advisor and Google, with more than 1,000 five-star reviews across the two platforms.

Lulzim at the grand final in Birmingham last weekend (Image: Supplied)

Their latest triumph was no easy feat, with Giuliano having to get through multiple rounds of competition, public voting and a visit from a mystery diner.

Having claimed the regional title earlier this year, the team headed to the grand final in Birmingham on Sunday (November 17) where they picked up the national award.

To celebrate, Giuliano is hosting a night of live music on Friday, November 29, featuring talented singer/pianist Jennie Sawdon.

Lulzim says it is a 'dream come true' to win (Image: Supplied)