The winners of this year's AA Hospitality Awards have been as one Scottish restaurant is recognised with a coveted 5 Rosette distinction.

The best of the UK's hospitality scene gathered in London for an event which has become the 'benchmark for excellence' in the industry.

Hosted by AA Hotel & Hospitality Services, the  evening was presented by BAFTA-nominated television and radio broadcaster Angellica Bell, widely recognised for her winning victory on Celebrity MasterChef. 

The night celebrated the most outstanding hotels, spas, restaurants, overall Inns and B&Bs, alongside with the people who drive them forward with over 900 in attendance.

Honoured with the Restaurant of the Year Award for Scotland was Loch Bay on the Isle of Skye, a cosy six table venue which specialises in the best of local seafood.

Michael Smith, chef-proprietor at Loch Bay Restaurant said: "I have been peeling prawns and working with Skye’s incredible produce for 20years this year so I am extremely grateful, and ultimately just love the fact that the entire team of Laurence, Issy, Graeme and Bren are recognised for their consistent passion, skills and dedication towards the hospitality industry as well as, of course, our fantastic fishermen and suppliers."

Elsewhere, the Cromlix  was selected as Hotel of the Year for Scotland.

Owned by Andy and Kim Murray since 2013, the Victorian mansion in Dunblane encompasses 34 acres of woodland and landscaped garden grounds with its own chapel and lochan.

Barry Makin, general manager at Cromlix: “We are absolutely delighted to have won this award. It is the pinnacle of achievement for any Scottish hotel.

Every member of the team has played their part, working hard every single day to deliver an excellent experience to our guests.

"The feedback we consistently receive from our guests confirms this, but to receive this AA award really demonstrates we are delivering across the board."

The Wine Award for Scotland went to the team at The Balmoral in Edinburgh, a city institution which operates three different bar and restaurant spaces.

Emma Hemy, restaurant manager at Number One, The Balmoral: “I have had the pleasure of watching our wine offering at Number One develop for many years under the care and passion of several dedicated head sommeliers.

"This past year has been like a great vintage, with everything and everyone coming together.

"Myself, Head Sommelier Callum and Chef Mathew are very proud to share the prestigious AA Wine Award Scotland with all our wonderful team and treasured wine suppliers.”


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Putting Scotland on the map in a UK wide category was Mingary Castle in the Highlands which beat stiff competition to be named Restaurant with Rooms of the Year.

Continuing on from an incredible two-Michelin Star distinction announced in February this year, The Glenturret Lalique became one of only three new UK restaurants to receive a 5 AA Rosette distinction.

This is the highest number of Rosettes that a restaurant can gain, and is awarded only to those who have reached the 'pinnacle' of cooking.

Finally, Douneside House in Aberdeenshire received 4 Red Stars as a hotel which stands out as one of  the "very best" in the UK.

Simon Numphud, managing director at AA Media, said: “This incredible celebration is a true testament to the strength and innovation within our industry.

"The dedication and excellence demonstrated by all the hospitality teams have been nothing short of inspiring. 

"Congratulations to all the winners, nominees, and new Rosette holders for their remarkable contributions.”

See the full list of Scottish winners below:

Scottish Restaurant of the Year:

Loch Bay Restaurant, Isle of Skye

Scottish Hotel of the Year:

Cromlix, Stirling

Scotland Wine Award:

The Balmoral, Edinburgh

Restaurant with Rooms of the Year:

Mingary Castle, Highlands

New 5 Rosettes:

The Glenturret Lalique Restaurant, Perth & Kinross

New 4 Red Stars:

Douneside House, Aberdeenshire