Scottish Hospitality Excellence Shines at AA Awards
In a night of glitz and glamour, the AA Hospitality Awards celebrated the best of Scotland’s culinary and accommodation scene. This prestigious event, deemed the ‘benchmark for excellence’ in the industry, brought together over 900 guests to honor the outstanding achievements of restaurants, hotels, and their dedicated teams. Hosted by the talented Angellica Bell, the evening was filled with excitement and anticipation as the winners were unveiled.
Loch Bay Restaurant: A Taste of Skye’s Finest
Loch Bay Restaurant on the Isle of Skye claimed the title of Restaurant of the Year for Scotland, earning a coveted 5 Rosette distinction. The cozy six-table venue, known for its exquisite seafood dishes, has been a labor of love for chef-proprietor Michael Smith for two decades. Smith expressed his gratitude for the recognition, attributing the success to the passion, skills, and dedication of his team and the support of local fishermen and suppliers.
Cromlix: A Victorian Gem in Dunblane
Meanwhile, Cromlix in Stirling was named Hotel of the Year for Scotland, showcasing the Murray family’s commitment to excellence since acquiring the property in 2013. Nestled on 34 acres of picturesque grounds, this Victorian mansion offers a serene escape with its own chapel and lochan. General Manager Barry Makin expressed delight at the prestigious accolade, acknowledging the hard work of the entire team in delivering exceptional guest experiences.
Scotland’s Wine Excellence at The Balmoral
The Wine Award for Scotland went to The Balmoral in Edinburgh, a renowned establishment with three distinct bar and restaurant spaces. Emma Hemy, restaurant manager at Number One, The Balmoral, highlighted the dedication of the team in developing a stellar wine program that culminated in this prestigious recognition. The award reflects the collaborative effort of the staff, sommeliers, and suppliers in creating a top-notch dining experience.
Mingary Castle in the Highlands stood out as the Restaurant with Rooms of the Year, offering a unique blend of dining and accommodation experiences. The Glenturret Lalique Restaurant in Perth & Kinross joined the elite club of 5 AA Rosette recipients, showcasing culinary excellence at its pinnacle. Douneside House in Aberdeenshire was recognized with 4 Red Stars, solidifying its position as one of the top hotels in the UK.
Simon Numphud, managing director at AA Media, commended the industry’s strength and innovation, acknowledging the remarkable contributions of all the winners, nominees, and new Rosette holders. The evening was a true celebration of hospitality excellence, inspiring all to strive for greatness in their respective fields.
Scotland’s culinary and hospitality scene continues to shine brightly, with establishments like Loch Bay Restaurant, Cromlix, and The Balmoral setting the bar high for excellence. As the winners bask in the glory of their well-deserved awards, the industry looks forward to another year of innovation, dedication, and exceptional service.