Three Cumbrian fine dining restaurants have been named among the best in the UK in a prestigious guide.
The Harden’s Restaurant Guide is based on feedback from diners rather than professional inspectors.
To appear in the Harden’s 100 is a major accolade and three of the county’s venues have made the grade.
L’Enclume – Cumbria’s three Michelin star restaurant – was highest in the list at eight. Diners said of the Cartmel venue: “There seems to be no end to Simon Rogan’s creativity” and – with head chef Paul Burgalieres – the kitchen delivers “unmatched seasonal food with true integrity” and “exceptionally beautiful” flavours, using produce from Rogan’s own farm.
At 27 is Grasmere’s Forest Side. With the kitchen run by head chef Paul Leonard, diners said it rated mention next to L’Enclume and its service was exceptional.
Aulis at L’Enclume came in at 45. Billing itself as a ‘unique and interactive dining experience going behind the scenes of L’Enclume’s kitchen in Cartmel, Aulis has just six seats, is open only on Friday evening and Saturdays, and has one menu, at £150. Hardens said it was a ‘bucket list’ chef’s table experience.
The Old Stamp House in Ambleside was 79th in the top 100. It was described by diners as “a delicious plated journey around Cumbria’s fields, lakes, woods, coast and fells – sublime from the off” and “smashing it out of the park as always”.
The Old Stamp House’s chef patron Ryan Blackburn said: ‘’It’s always great to receive recognition for what you do day-to-day, especially when it’s diner-led like Harden’s is.
“That makes it even more meaningful, and represents a true reflection of the experience we aim to deliver for each and every one of our guests. Without doubt this recognition is a particular testament to the hard work of the entire team in ensuring every guest has the best possible experience when they dine with us.”
The guide lists 2,800 restaurants in total and at all levels from street food vendors to the country’s most ambitious dining rooms.
