Tom and Laurissa Heywood, the husband-and-wife team behind North Yorkshire restaurant Pignut, have been shortlisted for two major honours at the 2025 Catey Awards, one of the UK hospitality industry’s most prestigious accolades.
Announced at a ceremony held on Monday 7 July at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House in London, Pignut was recognised in the Newcomer Award and Sustainable Business Award (SME) categories.
Although they did not win, Tom and Laurissa said:
“We feel so honoured to be shortlisted for newcomer and sustainable business, to even be considered for these awards means the world and motivates us to keep pushing and improving ways to become more sustainable, especially with our move to the Hare at Scawton. It’s a great boost at such a busy time for us and to be in amongst some of the most talented chefs in the country is motivating enough. Congratulations to all the winners, who are all incredibly inspiring!”
Organised by The Caterer, the Cateys celebrate national excellence across the hospitality sector. Judging is carried out by more than 100 industry professionals, including previous winners and sector leaders.
Since opening in Helmsley in June 2023, Pignut has built a strong reputation for its seasonal tasting menus focused on wild and foraged ingredients, produce from community growers, and regenerative farming. With just 14 seats, the restaurant offers a personal dining experience with a clear focus on sustainability.
The Newcomer Award highlights operators who have launched their first hospitality business within the past three years and have made a strong early impact. The Sustainable Business Award (SME) recognises smaller hospitality businesses taking meaningful steps to reduce their environmental impact. For Pignut, this includes initiatives such as refillable wine schemes, composting food waste, working with local social enterprises and achieving carbon-neutral certification.
Pignut has also received other national recognition. It is listed in the 360° Eat Guide, holds Three AA Rosettes, is recommended by the Michelin Guide, and Laurissa was named one of the industry’s rising stars in the Acorn Awards.
The awards recognition comes at a key moment as Pignut prepares to relocate to its new home at The Hare in Scawton. The move will allow the couple to grow more of their own produce, introduce guest accommodation and continue to build on their sustainability goals.
