The Malverns is home to talented chefs, world class produce and gorgeous historic architecture – these ingredients come together to produce some truly excellent dining options. The AA Rosette reviewers agree, and have awarded the prestigious accreditation to seven eateries across our district.
Enjoy fine dining in a lovely atmosphere with superb locally sourced, seasonal high-quality kitchen creations.
L’amuse-Bouche Restaurant – 2 Rosette Rating
The AA Inspector was impressed by this gorgeous Victoriana style building, noting how “large windows mean guests can enjoy great views across the beautiful gardens”. L’amuse Bouche’s menu is based on traditional French style cooking with their expert Chefs bring a modern twist. Local and organic produce is used wherever possible and the Chefs take great pride in their presentation with the philosophy that diners eat with their eyes first. The menu includes some local delicacies such as Severn and Wye Valley smoked salmon fillet and 28 day dry aged Herefordshire filled of beef.
The Cottage in the Wood – 3 Rosette Rating
The Cottage in the Wood stood out to the AA Inspector who complimented its “refined, classically inspired yet modern” dishes and “delightfully Georgian” architecture. The 1919 restaurant offers panoramic views across the Severn Plain and there is a large terrace for stylish al fresco dining in the warmer months. Chef Rob Mason is a great believer in seasonality and gets the most from top quality produce by pickling and fermenting herbs and vegetables for use in dishes throughout the year. On the menu vegetables are treated with appreciation; with roast potato velouté and homemade sourdough croutons for the soup and a celebration of celeriac and truffle available for main. The restaurant also appears on the AA notable wine list.
The Inn at Welland – 2 Rosette Rating
Set in the countryside, with brilliant views of the Malvern Hills, the AA Inspector found The Inn at Welland “full of rural style and charm” and noted that “the seasonal menu changes daily, and the eclectic wine list is wide-ranging”. Opened in 2010 after extensive refurbishment hosts David and Gilly aim to provide refined dishes using only fresh ingredients sourced from the kitchen garden or local farms. The Sunday Lunch menu is full of delights with locally sourced meats served with all the trimmings (including cauliflower cheese) and spiced garden apple & blackberry crumble with vanilla custard for desert.
The Refectory – Stanbrook Abbey – 2 Rosette Rating
The superbly renovated restaurant at Stanbrook Abbey Hotel is an impressive location. The AA Inspector explains “The Refectory was originally the nuns’ dining room” and that the “architecture; wood panelling, vaulted ceilings, large high windows, and pictures reflect the place’s history, but this has also given way to an elegant contemporary design, reflected in a modern British menu”. The specially selected tasting menu showcases the best of Worcestershire over 5 courses including Wood Pigeon and Lamb. On the main menu the grazing boards are an indulgent option for couples including baked camembert with truffle honey and apple or the Butchers Board including serrano ham, chorizo prestigio, ham hock pressing and celeriac rémoulade, balsamic onions garlic pizzetta to compliment.
Badgers Restaurant – 2 Rosette Rating
“Good food in elegant surroundings” was the conclusion from the AA reviewers after a visit to Badgers Restaurant at The Elms Hotel. The huge manor house has 10 acres of grounds including tennis courts and a croquet lawn with indoors boasting luxurious accommodation and top notch spa. Badgers has a cosy but stylish old country house interior and matches this vibe by serving British comfort food with a quirky twist.
The Manor Arms at Abberley – 1 Rosette Rating
Located in the rolling Worcestershire countryside the AA reviewer notes “there’s more than a hint of the old world” at The Manor Arms and that “satisfying meals and local beers await explorers” visiting this Inn. Diners can count on magnificent views and there is a large beer garden in which to make the most of them. On the menu expect locally sourced, seasonal dishes from Michelin trained Head Chef Ben including home baked breads with whipped herb butter and English duck leg served with braised lentils and Cavolo Nero.
More Michelin Guide Mentioned Eateries
The Butchers Arms
Located in the parish of Eldersfield near Gloucester this rural pub dating from the 16th century offers cosy interior with low exposed beams, wooden floors and a roaring fire. The menu is sophisticated without being stuffy, the portions reasonable with flavours seasonal and familiar. Make sure to leave room for desert, the chocolate cremeux comes highly recommended as does the crème brûlée with blood orange. Booking is encouraged as seating is limited.
The Baiting House
The Baiting House is praised in the Michelin Guide for its “assured yet understated modern British dishes” that are “well priced and nicely balanced and, most importantly, deliver bags of flavour.” The twice baked cheddar soufflé is a showstopper and the beer selection is excellent. There are studio rooms and lodges on site as well, set in a wildflower meadow with hot tubs for after dinner stargazing. The Baiting House is located in Upper Sapey in Herefordshire.
