AN AWARD winning restaurant which has built a reputation for its plant-based gluten free "food for all" is looking to reclaim its title of Tourism and Hospitality Business of the Year.

After winning the award in 2012, El Piano is hoping once again to impress the judges with its commitment to attracting national and international visitors through its food offering, which is safe for vegans, vegetarians and coeliacs.

The business, based in Grape Lane, which was this year crowned Best Cafe/Tea Room in the Visit York Awards, is also hoping to win Best Business and Community Link in the Press Business Awards.

Liz Chadwick, marketing co-ordinator for El Piano, said: "Our mission has always been to operate well despite difficult economic times whilst retaining and driving forward a social agenda using food as our centrepiece.

"Through our approach we hope we demonstrate a business model fit for a future where, as environmental pressures mount, business and community are of necessity more closely linked."

El Piano played a part in the production of “SMALL CHANGES Making the most of your money”, by contributing a weeks worth of recipes for feeding a four people for under £5, for the publication compiled by Citizen's Advice Bureau, City of York Council and York Press.

As well as running free cookery classes, demonstrations and workshops, El Piano also produces a its own magazine, published in both English and Spanish, providing information, recipes and news concerning local growing, animal welfare and special diets.

As well as hosting B&B owners for an annual "thank you" evening of food and networking, El Piano provides free space for community groups, and takes part in as well as hosts a number of charity events.

The business runs an active education programme, including a schools outreach scheme which sees staff going into schools to cook with children, as well as publishing a series of cookbooks and running a cookery school programme throughout the summer.

El Piano is also spearheading a proposed green wall initiative hoping to transform the outer wall of the restaurant into an edible garden, working with the Civic Trust, City of York Council, Askham Bryan College, local architects and engineers, York Edible Schools, Edible York, among other organisations.

Mrs Chadwick added: "Our policies and projects promote York widely whilst we also attract many people to the city.

"El Piano's business culture and ethos lie in food excellence, sustainability and community."