Sponsored by: Hallgarten & Novum
Grand finalists: Harriet Mansell – Robin Wylde; James Harris – The Beckford Bottle Shop; Joshua Jones – Number Eight
Andrew says: ‘I was absolutely honoured to win the title of Best Trencherman’s Chef. It is a recognition of the hard work, dedication and passion my team and I put into our business.
‘The awards ceremony was the perfect opportunity to celebrate with fellow chefs, industry experts and professionals who share the same love for fine food.
‘The atmosphere was electric, and I truly enjoyed the sense of camaraderie and the opportunity to exchange ideas and experiences with some of the best in the business.’
This perennially popular, wisteria-covered hotel in the heart of Taunton is renowned for its timeless elegance and award-winning culinary flair.
The Castle has seen several talented chefs pass through its kitchen, and now head chef Andrew Swann oversees its buzzing restaurants and private dining rooms.
Brazz, the main restaurant, is open for brunch and lunch, but really comes to life during dinner service when low‑level lighting and leather banquette seating create an intimate atmosphere. Quality South West ingredients form the backbone of the menu, and guests can expect to find the likes of Brixham crab and prawn roulade, pickled mouli, lobster and dill sauce, and Quantock lamb rump and crispy belly with salsa verde, creamed potatoes and purple sprouting.
Recent developments include the refurbishment and launch of The Drawing Room, a relaxed lounge area where hotel guests and visitors can book in for afternoon tea or a light lunch, or enjoy an evening cocktail. There’s also the popular Twilight Hour (between 11pm and midnight) on Fridays and Saturdays where cocktails and house spirits can be enjoyed on a two-for-one deal.
The more formal restaurant, Castle Bow, has been converted to a private dining space, hosting weddings and celebrations in glamorous art deco surroundings.
Jo Rees loosens her corset and revels in drama and dinner at one of the South West’s most historic country house hotels
Michael Caines’ country house hotel has been wowing reviewers and diners since its launch. Jo Rees visited to ‘experience the exceptional’.
The thought of splashing £200 plus on dinner for two might make you wince, but every penny is well accounted for in the uber luxe Lucknam Park experience.
We’ve been sunning ourselves at the Sea Side this month, checking out St Moritz Hotel’s revamped easy-going eatery
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