Two West Midlands restaurants have been recognised at this year’s prestigious AA Rosette Awards.

Lichfield-based restaurant, Upstairs by Tom Shepherd and Solihull-based Smoke, Hampton Manor received three AA Rosettes – standing out for their selection and treatment of the highest quality ingredients and consistently excellent flavour combinations. This commitment to quality earned both restaurants a top spot on the AA’s list of the UK’s finest restaurants.

Established in 1956, the AA Rosette awards have long been a marker of leading restaurant and hotel venues across the UK, with the allocation of multi-Rosettes determined by AA’s expert inspectors.

Venues with three AA Rosettes are all outstanding restaurants that achieve standards that demand national recognition well beyond their local area.

As is tradition, each winner of a Rosette Award also received the iconic porcelain AA plate.

Speaking on Upstairs by Tom Shepherd, an AA inspector said: “Located in the cathedral city of Lichfield, Upstairs by Tom Shepherd is a contemporary restaurant above the jewellery shop owned by the chef-proprietor’s father. A stylish room in various shades of grey is the setting for the seven-course tasting menu or four courses at lunch.

“The cooking is inspired by the seasons, produce and locality. A beautifully presented starter of Isle of Wight tomatoes, consommé, goats’ cheese and basil could lead on to Woolley Park Farm pork, onion, black garlic and potato. Finish with Colston Bassett blue and pain au apricot or éclair with cherry sorbet and pistachio.”

Commenting on Smoke, Hampton Manor, an AA inspector said: “Located in the old furnace house of historic Hampton Manor, Smoke is next to the walled garden that provides many of the raw materials for the kitchen. There is a rustic charm and simplicity to the menu, with Masterchef: The Professionals winner Stuart Deeley cooking much of the seasonal produce over fire.

“Begin with a smooth chicken liver parfait served with a sherry sauce, walnut and apple, before a main course of sea bream, lobster bisque and smoky white beans. A rich and decadent chocolate fondant tart, poached pear and crème fraîche ice cream is one of the memorable desserts.”

To discover all of the top restaurants across the UK with AA Rosettes and also watch the 2023 Rosette awards ceremony, click here.