A Bristol pub and a restaurant have been recognised as some of the best in their fields at a national awards ceremony. The Observer Food Monthly Awards recognises the achievements of venues across the UK along with key figures in the culinary world.
The shortlist is chosen by Observer Food Monthly readers for a number of categories and was released on Sunday (October 16). Bristol got two mentions as runners-up - one for the Best Restaurant and another in the Best Sunday Lunch categories.
Little French was named as runner up as the best restaurant in the UK. The family-owned restaurant run by Freddy Bird and his wife Nessa in Westbury Park was praised for its simple yet classic French-inspired food and its extensive wine list.
Read more: New AA Restaurant Guide 2023 names top Bristol eateries and pubs
In a post on Instagram, the restaurant thanked those who had voted. "To be nominated by our customers and chosen by the broad spectrum of critics who are brought together to make these decisions, is such an honour," it read.
"We never take what we do for granted. If we were ever at risk of that, these last years has taught us (in the most profound way) to appreciate every day that we are open, cooking, serving, pouring and hosting you in our humble little restaurant. Beyond all of you who have chosen us, we are obviously nothing at all without our utterly incredible team of chefs, front of house, loyal suppliers (and all those out-of-the-picture professionals who come at the drop of a hat to fix an oven, dishwasher or leaky tap) to ensure we are able to open our doors every day, fire up our ovens and do our thing."
Redland's The Kensington Arms made the shortlist for Best Sunday Lunch for the West of England. The Kenny, as it's more affectionately known, acknowledged the achievement on Instagram while celebrating its head chef's tenth anniversary as part of the team.
The Observer said: "Neighbours of the friendly and accomplished Kenny couldn’t wish for a better local. The kitchen’s modern approach to pub classics graces Sunday’s menu, too: witness salt-baked hispi cabbage sitting above lamb faggots to start; roasts with little flourish; or mushroom caramel with the chocolate pot to finish."
The Kensington Arms was previously named among some of the best gastropubs in the UK. It's known for its traditional pub food with a seasonable focus.
Other winners included Delia Smith who was awarded the Icon Award and Jack Monroe who was recognised for their work helping others during the cost of living crisis.
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