AN Oxford chef has won the coveted title of 'Pasta Chef of the Year' at a national competition.

Uberto Scarpati, from independent restaurant Mamma Mia in Jericho, won the Pasta Pizza and Italian Food Association Award at a ceremony in London on Thursday.

Chef Uberto travelled with the Mamma Mia team to London Olympia for a live cook-off at the European Pizza and Pasta Show as part of the competition.

His winning dish of fresh pappardelle with slow-cooked rabbit ragu impressed judges including celebrity chef Theo Randall.

Uberto beat off stiff competition from the Italian food industry to win the prestigious title of Pasta Chef of the Year and scoop a £1,000 prize.

Uberto, who comes from Naples in Italy and has been living in Oxford for many years, said: “It’s an honour to be awarded this prize. I’m so delighted.”  

Jon Ellse, who runs Mamma Mia, said: “The whole Mamma Mia team are delighted for Uberto.

"It’s great to see his hard work being recognised. His winning dish was just perfect.

"He runs an amazing kitchen and we’re all super proud of him.”