ONE of life’s little pleasures is a meal out with friends and family.

As part of its campaign to assist the hospitality industry the Government is encouraging people to ‘eat out to help out’ during certain days in August, along with discounts of up to 50 per cent on food.

And local businesses have pulled out all the stops to make their premises safe to help bring a little bit of normality back into people’s lives.

We thought we’d ask people to nominate their favourite restaurants in the north and west Cumbria.

Here then, in no particular order, is some of the favourite places for a meal.

1 GIANNI’S PIZZERIA, CARLISLE

Jo Fenn said: “Gianni’s Carlisle is by far the best family friendly restaurant.

“The food is always fantastic and they always make you feel welcome, especially the children.”

2 THE YELLOW EARL, WHITEHAVEN

Reader Hayley Dixon recommends the Yellow Earl, on Lowther Street, which has rave reviews on Tripadvisor.

One review said: “Had a Sunday dinner today. Lots of roast chicken, veg, mashed and roast potatoes, a large Yorkshire pudding and stuffing, all topped with gravy. This was a delicious meal well cooked and a nice large portion – five stars.”

Another said: “Really like this place, been a few times with my partner.

“If you are after a nice cocktail and a good buzz, this is the best place in Whitehaven.”

3 THE CROSSKEYS, PENRITH

Rachael Thomson said: “The Crosskeys, Carleton, Penrith.

“Fantastic food, staff and views from restaurant are beautiful.

“Sunday lunch is a must.”

4 THE CLICKHAM INN, PENRITH

Mike Walsh said: “The Clickham Inn. Wonderful food and glorious log fires with a warm welcome from the landlord and lady.”

5 THE GLOBE, WHITEHAVEN

The pub on Main Street has a number of rave reviews on Tripadvisor.

One customer said: “Excellent food as always, never had a bad meal to date, friendly staff, good crack, and overall the best place for Sunday dinner ever.”

Another said: “Never had a bad meal at this place, always spot on, friendly, helpful staff, food is excellent.

“I had a roast beef and turkey dinner, you don’t need a knife to cut the meat, it’s that tender and melts in your mouth.”

6 THE CROWN & THISTLE, ROCKCLIFFE

The pub, at Rockcliffe to the north of Carlisle, was among those to be recommended.

Dave Robinson said: “The Crown & Thistle at Rockcliffe, hands down the best food around since they were at The Queens at Warwick.

“The best fish pie I’ve tasted, and I’ve never had a bad meal from them.”