A RESTAURANT on the banks of the River Teifi has been included in the prestigious latest list of the AA Rosette Award winners.

The awards recognise the restaurants offering the highest culinary standard in the UK and Ireland and Hammet @ Castell Malgwyn, Llechryd, has been awarded three AA rosettes – one of 11 across the country to be added to the AA’s list. Two restaurants were given four rosette status.

Simon Numphud, managing director at AA Media said: “Establishments with three AA Rosettes are all outstanding restaurants achieving standards that demand national recognition well beyond their local area.

“Those awarded four AA Rosettes are among the top restaurants in the country.

“We are thrilled to recognise hotels and restaurants achieving such high standards of culinary excellence. Congratulations to these establishments and their staff, who demonstrate the variety and high quality of dining experiences offered across the UK.”

In its review of Hammet @ Castell Malgwyn, the AA says it is a “wonderfully stylish setting for equally stylish food.

“A fabulous, creeper-clad Georgian house with a contemporary interior – neutral colours and a striking art collection combining effectively with intricate period plasterwork and high ceilings.

The transparent Perspex chairs in the dining room are pretty cool, and so is the food.

“Begin with seared monkfish with black garlic – a great flavour combination enhanced by pickled mussel and a smooth pea purée.

“A beautifully presented main of chicken with girolles, bacon and sweetcorn offers excellent contrasting textures, while a deceptively simple dessert of lemon curd, chantilly cream and honeyed raspberries brings a bold intensity to the close of the meal.”

The AA has awarded Rosettes to restaurants since 1956, with the top award of five Rosettes introduced in 1991. The multi rosettes are awarded bi-annually in January and September, with success determined by one or more visits by an AA inspector to a hotel or restaurant.