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The UK’s most exceptional restaurants took centre stage tonight as the new AA Rosettes for culinary excellence were unveiled at the AA’s Spring update ceremony at the RAK Ceramics Design Hub.
In 2026, two restaurants achieved the coveted four AA Rosette status and a further twelve have secured three AA Rosettes – a powerful statement of the UK’s strength as a culinary destination. There was also a new addition to the ceremony this year, with the AA awarding the Sommelier of the Year for the first time.
A standout moment in the hospitality calendar, the AA Rosettes continue to spotlight the creativity, ambition, talent and technical brilliance shaping Britain’s dynamic dining landscape. From refined tasting menus to bold, globally inspired cooking rooted in seasonality and provenance, this year’s winners reflect a sector at the top of its game.
Among the elite four-Rosette recipients is Home by James Sommerin (Home at Penarth), applauded for its family affair and welcoming space. Joining it at this level is Sorrel, where AA’s inspectors commended the restaurant for its first-rate seasonal produce, excellent technical skills and first-class presentation.
Achieving three AA Rosettes places restaurants firmly on the national stage, acknowledging culinary excellence that resonates far beyond their local area.
Four AA Rosettes signal entry into an exclusive echelon reserved for restaurants delivering outstanding gastronomy with precision, flair and unwavering consistency, ranking them among the finest in the country.
Alongside the Rosette accolades, the evening also shone a spotlight on front-of-house excellence for the first time with the presentation of the AA Sommelier of the Year Award which recognised Cathryn Bell at Fernery at Grove of Narberth. Celebrating exceptional knowledge, instinct and the ability to elevate the guest experience through expertly curated wine pairings, the award recognises those who bring theatre, precision and deep understanding to the floor.
Simon Numphud FIH, Managing Director at AA Media, 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.”
Continuing a long-standing tradition, each Rosette winner is presented with the distinctive RAK Porcelain AA Rosette plate – an instantly recognisable mark of culinary distinction. They will also be invited to attend the AA’s main Hospitality Awards on 21 September.
Katie Lloyd, Sales Manager UK at RAK Porcelain, official sponsor of the 2026 AA Rosette Awards, commented: “It’s a privilege to once again support these prestigious awards and to present the iconic AA Rosette plates to such deserving winners. These restaurants represent the very best of talent, creativity and dedication within our industry. We extend our warmest congratulations to them all.”
Established in 1956, the AA Rosette Awards remain one of the UK’s most respected benchmarks for restaurant quality. The award of three or more Rosettes follows one or more anonymous inspections, ensuring only those delivering excellence at the highest level receive this sought-after recognition.
Itinerary: The Mediterranean aha Forum, in Partnership with VisitMalta Incentives & Meetings
Restaurant News is Sponsored by The Kitchen Porters Club
