THREE Cardigan businesses were among the winners at an awards ceremony celebrating the best of the Welsh food industry.

The fourth annual Food Awards Wales welcomed over 300 guests at the Exchange Hotel in Cardiff on Monday, 23 April.

More than 20 businesses from Ceredigion were nominated for the awards which recognise the success of local professionals and establishments.

The success on the night for Cardigan businesses saw El Salsa win the Best Mexican Establishment category, Tafell a Tân scoop the prize for Best Street Food, and Cardigan Bay Fish win Seafood Supplier of the Year.

In Llangrannog, south Ceredigion had another winner as The Pentre Arms scooped the gong for Gastro Pub of the Year Mid Wales.

Ynyshir Restaurant & Rooms near Machynlleth also took home a prize, winning Restaurant of the Year Mid Wales.

Laura Elsaesser, who runs El Salsa, said she was “ecstatic” to win the award.

“It’s always nice to be recognised for all the hard work and love that we put into our business every day,” she told the Cambrian News.

“It’s also great timing to claim this title as we are opening up our first permanent El Salsa Eatery this summer in Cardigan, so hopefully it will help put our town on the map as a little foodie destination and attract visitors from far and wide.

“A massive thank you to all our wonderful customers for voting for us and making it happen.”

Kate Brice of Tafell a Tân told the Cambrian News she was “over the moon with such an achievement".

See this week’s south papers for the full story, available in shops and as a digital edition on Wednesday