Armagh may be known for its two cathedrals dedicated to one saint but one city takeaway is aiming to put the ecclesiastical capital on the map for an altogether different reason.
Gringos takeaway, based on the Killylea Road, is just one of two pizza parlours in the whole of Northern Ireland in the running for a top award at the UK National Italian Pizza Championships.
The glitzy awards ceremony is due to take place in Glasgow on November 10 and the small Armagh eatery has big ambitions.
Operating successfully for the best part of a decade, Gringos is hoping to top off the evening with the gong.
Owner Ali told Armagh I of his delight at getting through to the finals.
“It really is a proud moment for me and the business, to be recognised at these awards,” he said.
“To get to the finals itself is a massive achievement for us, especially as we are only one of two in the whole of Northern Ireland to get this far.
“We can’t wait for the finals next month, it will be a night to remember no matter what happens.
“We are confident we can come away with the win – we have a lot of faith in the quality of our pizzas.”
Ali had a special word of thanks for his loyal customers over the years and for all those who helped Gringos get this recognition.
“Without our customers we wouldn’t be where we are today. We’ve been here 10 years and I believe we’re selling the best pizza in the entire city.
“What sets us apart is the our secret recipe dough and that fresh ingredients we prepare each and every day.
“We’re taking Armagh on the national stage and giving it a name as somewhere where you can pick up some of the finest pizza around.”
Ali will be involved in a cook-off from 10.30 in Glasgow’s Doubletree by Hilton where he’ll be expected to create a signature pizza that must contain Porcini mushrooms as central ingredient as well a classic margherita pizza.
The winning business from across Scotland and Northern Ireland will be announced at a gala dinner later that night.
And right after the dinner the winner will be challenging the England/Wales winner in a live cook off in front of 600 guests.
Check out Gringos on Facebook here.
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