WINNER: THE ETHICUREAN

This organic restaurant in the former orangery of an Edwardian kitchen garden builds its menu around the seasonal bounty outside. Forget food miles, at the Ethicurean's Walled Garden Cafe, the produce is only steps away. Starters – heavy on soups, salads and quiches – are under a fiver. Mains – think sausage and mash and stews – rarely break the £8 mark.
Long Lane, Wrington, North Somerset, BS40 5SA 01934 863713

RUNNERS UP

LONDON

Acorn House Modern European food in a bright, airy canalside setting at London's first truly environmentally sustainable restaurant. 10 Orsman Road, N1 5QU; 020 7033 0123

Wahaca Provenance is a big deal to the Mexican-themed Wahaca. All meat is from UK butchers, all chickens reared to high welfare standard and grey mullet and herring are used instead of fish in depleting stock.Branches across London

SOUTH & WEST

Riverford Field Kitchen The restaurant at this organic Devon farm won this category last year, and continues to thrive. Try the gratins. Buckfastleigh, Devon, TQ11 0JU; 01803 762 059

MIDLANDS & EAST

The Alley Cafe Creative, organic, vegetarian and vegan food in a relaxed, arty location. Cannon Court, Longrow West, Nottingham, NG1 6JE; 0115 955 1013

NORTH

Topaz Cafe All profits from this imaginative vegetarian cafe are reinvested into services such as counselling and creative workshops.216-218 Katherine St, Ashton-under-Lyne, Lancs, OL6 7AS; 0161 330 9223

Eighth Day Co-operative Organic, worker-controlled cafe. The Japanese kimpiri stew is as bold as their principles. 111 Oxford Road, Manchester, M1 7DU;0161 273 4878

WALES

Milgi Lounge Extremely popular with Observer readers this year, Milgi Lounge's wholesome veggie menu is based on what it can source from local organic farms. 213 City Road, Cardiff, CF24 3JD; 029 2047 3150

SCOTLAND

Urban Angel Fresh, local and sustainable produce used to great effect in a simple, tapas-style menu.Their almond croissants are indecently good.

Edinburgh branches in Hanover Street and Forth Street

NORTHERN IRELAND

Bay Tree, Holywood This fun, friendly restaurant works with local businesses and is at the heart of its community. Knockout breakfasts, too – and Sunday lunches.118 High Street, Holywood BT18 9HW;

0289 0421 419

The award for best ethical restaurant is supported by Cafédirect