The Chef at Halewood’s Casa Rima restaurant has been named Chef of the Year for the second consecutive year at this year’s British Kebab Awards.
Chef Kemal Coskuncay was presented with the award by Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy MP at the ceremony in London’s Park Plaza Hotel.
It is the third time Kemal has won the top award, which recognises and champions restaurants and takeaways nationwide.
Casa Rima, which serves Mediterranean cuisine, opened its doors on Baileys Lane in 2023 and has proven hugely popular with customers in Halewood.
Chef Kemal said: “We are becoming something of a destination in Halewood. We strive for a special atmosphere and a friendly service. The menu is wide ranging and we offer something for everyone. I tell stories about the ingredients we use, which drinks would pair well with the dishes, which deserts would go well. I like to think we offer a fantastic customer experience.”
Casa Rima in Halewood
Kemal, who has worked in the restaurant industry for 32 years and has over 20 years experience as a chef, says he and his brother Baris recognised the potential for a restaurant in Halewood before Casa Rima opened its doors.
Kemal with Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods
He said: “Halewood has a fantastic community and Knowsley Council has helped us a lot to realise this potential. We feel it is something of a hidden gem. We love being part of this community and a lot of our ingredients are sourced from farms around Halewood. I spoke to David Lammy and he said he loves the area and will come up to visit Casa Rima soon.”
Kemal’s brother Baris Coskuncay, who owns Casa Rima, also established Triangle Café and Bistro in Halewood Triangle Park in 2024 and will open a new restaurant venture – Casa Roni – in Kirkby Town Centre later this year.
Speaking about his award-winning brother, Baris said: “Kemal is an amazing chef. He has been in the business a long time and his work speaks for itself. I think the award is testament to his character and his hard work. His food is consistently excellent.
Casa Roni, opening in Kirkby this year
Baris added: “I think we have brought something really special to Halewood with Casa Rima. The restaurant stands out because of the quality of the food. People are attracted by the food and we treat our customers well. We’re helping to attract people into the area as well as our customers who live locally.”