Gareth Ward became the latest name added to the prestigious AA Chefs’ Chef of the Year roll of honour, taking top spot at the aa hospitality awards 2025.
Gareth was just one of many winners as the best and brightest in British hospitality came together at JW Marriott Grosvenor House for AA Hospitality’s flagship event.
The glittering evening was hosted by television and radio personality Vernon Kay, who entertained the near 1,000 guests in the room, after they had been treated to a stunning dinner courtesy of chef Adam Smith, from Woven at Coworth Park.
This year was the first for the Rising Star Award, recognising individuals in hospitality who demonstrate exceptional promise and potential in their field.
The winner was Nataliia Maiseionok, who worked her way up from waitress to sommelier at Fischer's Baslow Hall,having relocated from Ukraine in 2022, arriving to the UK with limited English but extensive hospitality experience.
Simon Numphud, managing director at AA Media, praised the UK’s hospitality sector for its resilience and innovative spirit in 2025.
He said: "This celebration highlights the passion, creativity and resilience that define UK hospitality. The teams have turned challenges into opportunities, inspiring us with their innovation and dedication.
“Congratulations to all winners, nominees and new rosette holders – your achievements deserve recognition and set a shining example for the future of our industry.”
All of 2025’s restaurant award winners and new rosette holders feature in the AA Restaurant Guide 2026, showcasing the very best restaurants across the UK and is the food lover’s definitive guide to enjoying the finest cuisine the country has to offer.
saw James Thomson OBE of Prestonfield in Edinburgh take home the Lifetime Achievement prize, while the Outstanding Contribution Award went to Alain Roux and Michel Roux Jr.
AA Hospitality Awards – 2025 winners
Chefs’ Chef of the Year
Gareth Ward of Ynyshir Restaurant and Rooms, Eglwys Fach
