Long Eaton café is award-winning

Credit: EBC

A dad who launched his own eatery after honing his culinary skills working in Rolls-Royce’s canteen has just seen it scoop two top awards.

Jubilant Phil Lombardi, 47, set up his cafe in Long Eaton after deciding during the pandemic that it was time to fulfil his driving ambition to be a restaurateur. He had been furloughed by Derby-based Rolls-Royce, where he was a chef.

Four years on – and after moving his restaurant from College Street to bigger premises in the town – the father of two is celebrating after his business was crowned as Derbyshire’s best takeaway.

The accolade is from judges at The SME Awards – a business forum that honours small to medium sized enterprises.

The gong for being 2026’s Best Takeaway and Caterer in Derbyshire came as this year’s Good Food Awards also praised the eatery – presenting it with a coveted blue ribbon for a second time.

Phil, who has a mobile kitchen to provide catering for events such as festivals, said proudly: “We’ve worked hard to create something a little different, serving freshly prepared street food alongside breakfasts and lunchtime favourites.

“Receiving recognition like this is huge. We don’t have the resources of the big chains, so our reputation has been built through the quality of our food, word of mouth and the continued support of people in Long Eaton and the surrounding area.”

Married Phil, who has twin boys aged nine, said: “We’re always looking at new ideas and ways to develop while keeping the independent, friendly feel that our customers know us for.”

He welcomed the £25million of Town Deal money that has been pouring into Long Eaton after Erewash Borough Council fought to clinch the regeneration funding from the government. The showcase project is a £10million revamp of the nearby High Street that is due to finish next spring.

Phil said: “I urge people to be patient amid the short-term disruption this is causing – because it will give the town a fantastic boost. A thriving Long Eaton is great news for businesses like mine.”

Cllr Curtis Howard, who is Erewash Borough Council’s Lead Member for Town Centres, Regeneration and Planning, said: “The awards are fully deserved since it is a terrific example of a successful local business. Well done, Phil!”