Coming up against seven other finalists from the Hunter Valley and Newcastle, the awards cover businesses from the north of Swansea to Tea Gardens, across to Muswellbrook and through to the wine-growing regions of the Hunter.

While the restaurant has been named as a finalist in previous years, this is the first time it has won.

Owner, Ross Fidden, said it wasn’t just a win for the business, but for Tea Gardens itself.

“It’s really good for Tea Gardens to be recognised and put on the map. We can be confident that there are quality places in town to eat.”

Mumm’s has been open for business for seven years now and Mr Fidden put the win down to the positive dynamics of his staff.

“It’s like any team,” he said.

“Like any business we have gone through changes and evolution over the years, we’ve always been doing a good job, it’s just being able to cross that final line.”

Mumm’s on the Myall chef, Alain Egloff agreed.

“Everything really came together this year,” he said.

The awards cover a variety of categories and each restaurant nominated is anonymously judged and voted on to recognise excellence in food and service and acknowledge the best practice in the hospitality industry.

The awards are presented in six regions around the state and ACT.