Luxury independent hotel The Tawny has become the first in Staffordshire to be awarded three AA Rosettes for its restaurant.
The Plumicorn is one of just 12 restaurants across the country to pick up the prestigious accolade in a Spring update to the scheme which recognises culinary excellence.
It joins fellow Staffordshire restaurants The Flintlock in nearby Cheddleton, and Upstairs by Tom Shepherd and The Boat, both in Lichfield, all of which have previously been given three AA Rosettes.
According to the AA, achieving three AA Rosettes places restaurants ‘firmly on the national stage, recognising culinary excellence that resonates far beyond their local area.’
Set within a rewilded 70-acre estate in Consall, The Plumicorn has a reputation for refined, modern cuisine rooted in seasonal produce. Led by executive chef Andrew Watts, the menus take inspiration from modern British and French cuisine, with Nordic influences.
The AA inspector noted the restaurant’s ‘appealing menus’, ‘slick service’ and a ‘diverse drinks list’ and commented: “Skilful brasserie dishes with beautiful views of the Tawny estate.”
The Plumicorn’s listing adds: “The kitchen delivers finely tuned dishes with well-thought-out flavour profiles and there’s plenty of vegetarian and vegan options.
“Trout cured in gin and citrus with caramelised apple purée, compressed apple, meadowsweet vinegar and nori crackers is a starter with great impact, followed by superb quality Cornish turbot with smoked onions, Jerusalem artichoke and punchy roasted bone sauce.”
Josh Chadwick, general manager of The Tawny, said: “To become the first hotel in Staffordshire to achieve three AA Rosettes is an incredibly proud moment for us all. This award reflects the passion, dedication and talent of our entire restaurant team.
“We set out to create something truly special at The Plumicorn, and to see it recognised at this level is a remarkable achievement for both the hotel and the county.”
Chef Andrew noted the achievement of the kitchen team and added: “Every dish we create is designed to highlight the finest local ingredients, and to see our dedication recognised in this way – while making history for Staffordshire – is deeply rewarding and inspires us to keep raising the bar.”
Staffordshire restaurants with two AA Rosettes are: The Duncombe Arms at Ellastone, the Ballroom at Hoar Cross Hall near Burton upon Trent, The Moat House in Acton Trussell, The Two Pigs in Barton-under-Needwood and Larder Brasserie and Grill in Lichfield.
Meanwhile The Three Horseshoes Country Inn and Spa, at Blackshaw Moor, and The Black Lion Inn in Butterton, both near Leek, have one AA Rosette.
