STAFF at a Renfrew restaurant have been raising their glasses after the Italian eatery won a prestigious award.

The Piccolo Mondo was named Best Restaurant in Renfrewshire at an event held in Glasgow by Scotlands Business Awards on Sunday night.

The team's triumph follows a large-scale renovation project recently completed at the Hairst Street eatery.

Lio Pierotti, owner of Piccolo Mondo, said staff were "ecstatic" about the victory.

The Gazette:

He told The Gazette: "It's been a wee boost for everybody after the past couple of years of doom and gloom.

"We did go through a refurb at the start of the year, which has worked quite well for us and we're happy with the results.

"We've had various obstacles to overcome in the past few years, such as Covid and the energy crisis, which has seen our gas bill go up overnight from £3,000 a year to £13,000 a year.

"It would be very easy to just throw in the towel, but instead we decided to fight back and hopefully this will be the first award of many awards to come with our new look."

A post on the Piccolo Mondo's Facebook page sharing the news of their victory has amassed over 700 likes and hundreds of comments congratulating staff members.

Lio said: "We've got a very family-orientated feel about the place and it's got a nice ambience and atmosphere to work in, which is why I think we do so well in the local community.

"My mum and dad originally opened the Piccolo Mondo in 1974 in Renfrew. They are both in their 80s but they are still helping me out to this day.

"We are also always staying on our toes and making changes if needed, as the worst thing you can do in business is stay the same."

The Gazette:

The team are now set to compete in the finals of Scotlands Business Awards, which will take place later this year.

Lio added: "The award was very well deserved for our staff, as without them we wouldn't have a business.

"I'm also delighted for all the customers who voted for us and have been so loyal over the years, especially during and after Covid."