A Lake District chef has won a top industry award.
Paul Leonard, the executive chef of The Forest Side in Grasmere, has been named Hotel Chef of the Year (under 250 covers) at the prestigious Hotel Cateys 2024.
The black-tie ceremony, held at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, celebrates excellence across the hospitality industry.
Leonard, who has led The Forest Side to retain its Michelin Star for four consecutive years, said: “We were buzzing when the shortlist was announced, but it was a huge shock to actually win!
“But it’s not just about the restaurant, I see the award as a recognition of what we’ve achieved right across The Forest Side, and I’m so proud of the whole team.”
Over the past year, Leonard and The Forest Side have amassed several accolades, including:
- Winning AA’s Hotel of the Year 2023
- Securing a spot in Square Meal’s Top 10 Restaurants in the UK
- Ranking #60 in the National Restaurant Awards Top 100
- Receiving a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence
- Achieving 4th place in the UK at the Global We Are Smart Awards
- Scoring 87.50 in La Liste 2024
- Being voted number 32 in the Hardens 100 by diners nationwide
Leonard was also named Cumbrian Chef of the Year 2023 and The Forest Side received a Michelin Key, a new international recognition introduced by the Michelin Guide this October, marking its exceptional service and sustainability practices.
