Its place in the history books as the preferred restaurant of a Hollywood ‘A’ lister has helped ensure another top industry award for Nonnas on Ecclesall Road.

Judges heard that star-struck diners still make the pilgrimage to visit the Italian that became an instant hit with Sylvester Stallone after he turned up unannounced and then – having  liked the restaurant so much – wouldn’t leave until the early hours of the following morning!

Nonnas won ‘best team’ in the region at the celebrated English Italian Awards.

Judges also heard about the restaurant’s ability to move with the times.

Originally opened in 1996 – Nonnas recently became one of the first Italian’s in the region to launch a dedicated vegan menu.

Nonnas proprietor Maurizio Mori picked up the award at a glitzy ceremony in Manchester.

He said: “There is no ceremony more important in our industry than the England Italian Awards. It has been another successful year for us on Ecclesall Road and this really is the icing on the cake. I have to say a big thank you to my restaurant manager Stefano Buralli and all our hard working staff – and not forgetting the continued support of our wonderful customers.

“Everyone is guaranteed a friendly welcome at Nonnas – Hollywood ‘A’ list or not!”

Local boxing legend Johnny Nelson – an old school friend of Maurizio Mori – has ensured a steady stream of sporting stars have passed through the venue over the years.

Everyone from the Lord Mayor of Sheffield to members  of Sheffield Wednesday and Sheffield United have visited Nonnas in the past few months.

One of the restaurant’s  proudest achievements has been partnering with the De Angelis family in earthquake hit Amatrice in Italy.

Nonnas have raised thousands of pounds to help them rebuild their lives and their cheese business after the disaster.

Their long-term intention is to work with the family to allow them to supply cheese to Nonnas and their customers in Sheffield.

Maurizio Mori will be raising more money for the appeal on Sunday, December 9^th, when he performs once again as Elvis with backing from Steve Delany of Sharp Cuts fame and celebrated saxophone player Simon Peat.

This is third time lucky for Nonnas at the awards. They won ‘best barista’ in England in 2016 and in 2015 won ‘best Italian business’ in England.

Gatehead’s Sorella Sorella won ‘best team’ in England at the awards. Nonnas were runners up and the winner in our region. Nonnas were also on the shortlist for ‘favourite business’.

Nonnas bookings can be made on 0114 268 6166. Nonna’s is situated at 535-541 Ecclesall Road, Sheffield S11 8PR. www.nonnas.co.uk