New AA Rosette restaurants revealed at spring update ceremony

Several leading UK restaurants, including Sorrel and Home by James Sommerin, have been recognised in the latest AA Rosette update, unveiled during the organisation’s spring ceremony at the RAK Ceramics Design Hub.

The long-running AA rosette scheme celebrates culinary excellence across the UK hospitality sector, with awards determined by the AA’s team of inspectors.

With extensive experience assessing restaurants across the country, inspectors evaluate food quality, consistency, technique and the overall dining experience.

The spring announcement confirmed new recipients of three and four AA Rosettes, recognising restaurants operating at the highest levels of cooking and hospitality.

Sorrel and Home by James Sommerin earn four AA Rosettes

Two restaurants were awarded four AA rosettes, a distinction reserved for operations delivering cooking of exceptional quality.

In Surrey, Sorrel in Dorking secured the accolade under chef Alex Payne, continuing the restaurant’s strong trajectory since it first earned a Michelin star in 2019, with Steve Drake at the helm.

In Wales, Home by James Sommerin in Penarth also achieved four rosettes. The restaurant, led by chef James Sommerin alongside his daughters Georgia and Angharad, has built a reputation for refined tasting menus rooted in seasonal produce and Welsh ingredients.

New three AA Rosette restaurants announced

A further group of restaurants were awarded three AA Rosettes, reflecting cooking of outstanding standard and technical ability.

Among the London additions are 74 Charlotte Street by chef Ben Murphy, Bonheur by chef Matt Abé, The Cocochine in Mayfair, and Michael Caines at The Stafford in St James’s.

Elsewhere across the UK, inspectors recognised LI~LY by chef Aiden Byrne in Knutsford, LOMA by chef Graeme Cheevers in Balloch, Morston Hall in Blakeney, The Plumicorn in Consall, Simply Wild Restaurant in Coleford, Sunlaws Restaurant in Kelso, The Tudor Pass in Egham and Ugly Butterfly by chef Adam Handling in Newquay.

The awards highlight the breadth of culinary talent across Britain, with new rosette restaurants spanning major cities, rural destinations and coastal locations.

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AA introduces Sommelier of the Year award

Alongside the rosette announcements, the AA also introduced a new industry honour: Sommelier of the Year.

The inaugural award went to Cathryn Bell, head sommelier at Grove of Narberth in Pembrokeshire.

Originally from Ammanford, Cathryn returned to Wales to join Grove of Narberth after 16 years working in Ireland, bringing experience from some of the country’s most acclaimed hotels and restaurants.

Her career has included roles at Ashford Castle, the Michelin-starred Chapter One under chef Ross Lewis, and the two Michelin-starred Aimsir with chef Jordan Bailey.

At Grove of Narberth, Cathryn leads a wine programme centred on sustainability, natural winemaking methods and a growing focus on Welsh producers.

Known for her engaging storytelling style and deep product knowledge, she has built a wine list designed to enhance the restaurant’s dining experience while constantly evolving.

Speaking about the award, Cathryn said: “Receiving the AA Sommelier of the Year award is a huge honour, and I'm immensely proud that we can bring it home to Wales.

“I’m very lucky to be part of a team that strives to create extraordinary experiences at Grove of Narberth and that I’m fully supported to embody that in the wine programme.

“It’s a huge privilege to do the job I do, bringing together food and wine, wine and people, and creating moments of joy every day – it’s the best thing I can do.”

Strength of the UK restaurant sector recognised

Simon Numphud, managing director at AA Media, said the spring update reflects the resilience and creativity of the hospitality sector.

He said: “Our spring update and the latest set of award recipients once again highlights the strength of the British culinary scene.

“The talent, skill and commitment to quality we’ve seen this year in the backdrop of a challenging environment is incredibly inspiring.

“The addition of Sommelier of the Year as part of this year’s awards reflects the modern restaurant experience. The dedication and precision of this year’s rosette winners set the standard for the industry.

“They continue to raise the bar and shape a vibrant and innovative British food culture. Congratulations to everyone recognised – this is truly deserved.”

The full AA Hospitality Awards, which celebrate achievements across the industry, will take place later this year on Monday, September 21.