A NEW Bournemouth restaurant has landed two awards within a year of opening its doors.

El Murrino, a wood fired pizza restaurant in Old Christchurch Road, won England’s Favourite Italian Business and was also runner up for England’s Best Pizzeria.

The family-run business is owned by Henry El Murr and his brother Rony.

Henry told Taste: “We are so proud to have won two awards. There was such tough competition amongst the finalists at this level and it means so much to be recognised and importantly be judged on our quality and authenticity.

“The English Italian Awards are renowned for showcasing the best of Italian cuisine and are sponsored by high profile names from the Italian Chamber of Commerce and industry for the UK to FIAT.”

Henry added: “It was very important for us to be part of this and put the El Murrino name out there amongst the best in the industry.”

So what is the secret of their success?

“It’s a combination of a lot of things,” says Henry.

“But it all comes down to passion, hard work and great food!

“We want our customers to enjoy fresh, good quality food in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere at reasonable prices.

“We are so passionate about our restaurant and determined for it to be the best it can be.

“As we are family run it makes a big difference.

“We all pull together and do what it takes to make sure that our restaurant continues to thrive.”

The modern, family-friendly restaurant features cosy booths and an iPad bar with Vespa-inspired seating where diners can indulge in Italian classics such as Margherita, Fungi e Prosciutto or the spicy Diavola.

For something a little different, there is a selection of pastas such as the authentic Roman classic, Spaghetti alla Carbonara, made traditionally with pancetta, Pecorino Romano and egg.

Henry and Rony added that they would like to thank all of their customers for their support and all of the team at El Murrino for their hard work and passion in achieving the awards.