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The UK’s best restaurants have been revealed by experts, including a Michelin-starred Thai restaurant in London and a modern Indian fine dining hotspot in Scotland.
Four restaurants were celebrated for cheffing up Britain’s finest food at the AA Hospitality Awards 2026.
North Yorkshire’s The Star Inn at Harome, a 14th-century country pub, charmed with its local ales, hearty flavours and commitment to hyper-local produce.
On the menu, broth of roasted hand-dived Isle of Mull king scallops meets melt-in-the-mouth A5 Wagyu beef “Rossini” with foie gras, morels and black spring truffle.
According to the AA inspector, the restaurant offers “finely tuned cooking in a worth-a-detour village pub.”
In London, a “blend of vibrant flavours and traditions” at AngloThai, Marylebone, wowed with a combination of traditional recipes and seasonal ingredients.
The AA recommended the peppercorn curry with asparagus, and said the strawberry, coconut and pandan dessert “finishes a meal nicely”.
For “classic cooking in legendary venue”, The Walnut Tree Inn in the Abergavenny countryside made the list for its informal atmosphere and daily-changing menu.
“Every dish is rock solid and reliable with a real understanding of ingredients, flavour combinations and tried-and-tested techniques,” says the AA.
In the heart of Glasgow, Swadish by Ajay Kumar plates up “modern Indian food in a sleek setting”.
The contemporary Indian menu combines traditional spicing and cooking techniques with high-quality seasonal ingredients. Its interiors feature stylish marble, mirrors and dark wood.
It is the 70th year of the AA Rosette award, which recognises restaurants for “serving food of a superior standard”.
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The winners were announced at an event at Grosvenor House, London on 21 September.
Simon Numphud, managing director of AA Hotel and Hospitality Services, said: “Every year, the AA Hospitality Awards shine a light on hotels, restaurants, B&Bs, inns and chefs going above and beyond to deliver memorable experiences for guests and diners. This year’s winners showcase the breadth and quality of hospitality across the UK, giving consumers a host of trusted recommendations and inspiration for their next meal or stay.
“Behind every award is a commitment to quality and service, which is what helps set British hospitality apart, underpinning its world-renowned reputation.”
The AA Restaurants of the Year, 2026
- The Star Inn at Harome, Harome, North Yorkshire
- AngloThai, Marylebone
- The Walnut Tree, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire
- Swadish by Ajay Kumar, Glasgow
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