A pub owned by Thatchers Cider, next to its famous Myrtle Farm, has been awarded two AA Rosettes. The Railway Inn in North Somerset has been praised by judges in the national award scheme.
It is located in the village of Sandford, about half an hour from Bristol via car, but its position near the Strawberry Line cycle path means that many people choose to bike ride there in the warmer months. Judges say it is home to "accomplished cooking and local ciders".
An AA inspector described their visit as "excellent", adding: "The meal impressed for its execution and refinement, paired with bags of flavour - two AA Rosettes awarded. Make sure you check out their cider and brewery tours."
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Rosettes are a scheme assessing the quality of food served by restaurants and hotels, ranging from one to five. Explaining the criteria for two Rosettes, the AA's guide explains: "[These are] excellent restaurants that aim for and achieve higher standards and better consistency.
"A greater precision is apparent in the cooking, and there will be obvious attention to the selection of quality ingredients. Around 40 per cent of restaurants/hotels within our AA Restaurant Guide have two Rosettes."
Dishes on the pub's sample menu include 'small plates' such as Cornish hake in a seaweed butter sauce (£9) and truffle mac ‘n’ cheese (£9), or there are more classic pub meals such as gammon steak, chips, pineapple chutney and fried hen's egg (£21). However, diners are advised that "we change our menu regularly to make the most of the seasonal bounty available in Somerset and beyond".
The drinks menu includes 18 Thatchers ciders, as well as five seasonal cocktails with a cider twist. One helpful reviewer, sharing their recommendations on Google, wrote: "Great atmosphere, cider heaven if its your drink of choice. Other drinks available.
"Lots of seating both inside and out. Cosy bar area, covered heated patio area also wooden tables all around the pub.
"Food choice was good although a little pricey. Burger was good, more than enough to fill you up. Restaurant area has a few tables if you wanted table service, we ate outside, food arrived quickly and at the same time."
James Davidson, head chef at The Railway Inn, said the team there are 'beyond delighted' with their two AA Rosettes. He added: "We dedicate ourselves to giving customers an elevated dining experience; using fresh, local and sustainable ingredients to create dishes that delight and are worthy of accompanying a Thatchers Cider."
Leigh Damerell, Railway Inn manager, added: "Our award-winning pub and restaurant [is] perfectly nestled at the foot of the Mendip Hills and on the Strawberry Line National Cycle Network. Our stunning restaurant with traditional country pub lounge and large, family-friendly outdoor space, make it a must-visit for locals, first timers, dog-walkers, cider lovers and especially, with our new double AA Rosette foodies!"
The pub is open Wednesday-Sunday and throughout summer holidays and bank holidays.
