Trencherman’s readers and food lovers across the South West came out in force to support their favourite restaurants, hotels, pubs, chefs and front of house teams in the Trencherman’s Awards 2023. Over 30,000 individual votes were cast, with some of the closest final scores we’ve seen in the Awards’ ten-year history.

The winners were crowned at a spectacular Trencherman’s Awards ceremony and dinner by the sea at Salcombe Harbour Hotel on March 6, hosted by broadcaster and food critic William Sitwell, chef and restaurateur Mark Hix of The Oyster & Fish House and Trencherman’s editor Jo Rees.

Host William Sitwell said: ‘Very few areas of the country have a guide that rivals Hardens or Michelin in terms of how it’s put together – the Trencherman’s Guide has really experienced food writers bringing their know-how and knowledge to it – but also for the fact that the South West food scene has the most extraordinary talent.

‘The Trencherman’s Awards event showcases incredible talent, innovation, a lot of energy, a lot of young people who have come into the hospitality business – and of course a few true stalwarts like my co-host Mark Hix.’

Andrew Swann, Executive Head Chef said, "I’m delighted to have picked up this years award, there were lots of great chefs nominated & the other finalists are all very talented. I re-joined The Castle & Brazz a year ago, so to win The Trencherman’s Award in my first 12 months is very special."

Ronan Hunter, Director & General Manager added, "Andrew deserves all the credit coming his way, he’s a very talented chef & has been producing great food since he came back to The Castle."

See more about the Castle at Taunton here - https://www.visitsomerset.co.uk/places-to-stay/hotels/the-castle-at-taunton