Ayesha Kalaji, the Chef Owner of Queen of Cups, Glastonbury's sole Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant, has secured a spot as a runner-up in the esteemed CODE Hospitality's Women of the Year 2024.

The title went to Abby Lee, Chef & owner at Mambow in Clapton.

But there was high praise for Kalaji's talent and innovative approach to cuisine, at last night's prestigious event.

Ayesha said: "I'm so grateful and excited to have been included on this year's list. This is genuinely so so cool. The CODE Women of the Year list has always been full of inspirational trailblazers that I have admired, so I'm honoured to be featured alongside them. I've genuinely dreamed of making it here, and now I have! I will be screeching with joy for at least a few weeks."

The CODE Women of the Year list, now in its sixth year and sponsored by Bibendum, stands as a testament to the women in hospitality who are catalysts for change and progress within the industry.

With over 850 nominations, this year's list was meticulously judged by an esteemed panel of industry experts, including luminaries such as last year's Woman of the Year, Samyukta Nair, industry stalwart Thom Hetherington, Valeria Rodriquez from Bibendum, food writer Hilary Armstrong, and the visionary behind CODE, Adam Hyman.Llast year's Woman of the Year, Samyukta Nair, shared, "As a woman in hospitality, I am inspired by the resilience, creativity, and leadership of my peers. Hospitality's Women of the Year by CODE, in being a celebration of talent and diversity, paves the way for future generations of women to thrive in an ever-changing, dynamic industry such as ours."

Adam Hyman, founder of CODE Hospitality, emphasised the impact of each nominee, stating, "The sheer volume of nominations we received this year shows the importance of our annual Women of the Year list to the industry.

" Every woman featured in the list has made meaningful impact to our industry over the past 12-months and they come from all parts of hospitality. It highlights how integral women are to making hospitality a better industry and the role they play in the future of it."

Kalaji's inclusion in this illustrious list not only underscores her individual prowess but also serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring chefs and women in the culinary world.

To view the full list of CODE Hospitality's Women of the Year 2024 and award winners, visit: CODE Hospitality's Women of the Year 2024