About the Trencherman’s Guide

Since the Trencherman’s Guide was established in 1992, it has built a rock-solid reputation as the gourmet’s definitive passport to the most exquisite dining experiences in the South West

Rick Stein describes it as ‘a guide with teeth’ due to the strict entry criteria that restaurants must meet in order to be included.

Establishments are invited to be a member based on reaching a number of points in an extremely stringent scoring system. Points are accumulated based on inclusion in a select list of renowned national guides or scoring by our in-house team of experienced food journalists. They visit venues throughout the year and complete detailed reports with criteria such as food, presentation, drinks, setting and service.

Extra-special dining experiences

When a restaurant achieves an exceptionally high score, it’s categorised as a “higher member”. These establishments combine cooking of the highest order with polished service, delivered in a setting that’s an exceptional example of its type – from impeccable dining pubs to grand manor houses and edge-of-the-water restaurants. Similarly, the wine list and other drinks provisions will be especially interesting, unusual or sizeable. Expect to find many wines by the glass, a breadth of local spirits and creative cocktails.

Think your restaurant has what it takes to be part of the guide? Head to our application page for restaurant owners here.

Authentic knowledge

One distinct feature that sets the Trencherman’s Guide apart from other dining guides is the authentic knowledge of the team behind it. They all live in the South West and have their fingers on the pulse of the region’s dining scene, enjoying relationships with its hospitality industry that span decades. They also produce sister South West publications Food Lifestyle magazine and the Indy Coffee Guides.

Trencherman’s Awards

Each year, the best of the best of South West hospitality come together at the prestigious Trencherman’s Awards, which are voted for by our readers.

Trencherman’s committee

The Trencherman’s Guide is overseen by a committee of industry experts, who ensure its quality and integrity.