New Lanarkshire restaurant wins hospitality award

A Lanarkshire restaurant which opened its doors two months ago has tasted success at a prestigious industry ceremony.

Monterey Jack’s in Strathclyde Park won the best newcomer category at the Scottish entertainment and hospitality awards, while the venue was also “highly recommended” in the search for the country’s best burger.

The American-themed diner, located at M&D’s theme park, opened in March and is the largest of the chain’s 10 branches in Scotland.

Matthew Taylor junior of M&D’s said: “We’re over the moon to be recognised and it’s a fantastic achievement for everyone involved.

“We were keen to create something special that would attract customers back; a lot of effort went into making sure the design was absolutely right and, of course, that we offered the best food possible.

“Customers have been terrific and very complimentary and this is just the icing on the cake.”

The £250,000 “showstopper” restaurant, which created 30 jobs on opening in March, seats 250 customers across two floors and includes an outdoor terrace.

It is designed as a ‘Wild West Street’ including a hotel, sheriff’s office, general store and barbers, plus a water feature based on a horse trough.

Monterey Jack’s also won the category of best use of marketing and technology at the 11th annual hospitality awards, which attract entries from more than 5000 businesses per year.

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