In an exciting development for the Cumbrian culinary scene, the esteemed Pentonbridge Inn, located near Carlisle, has earned a place as a finalist in three distinguished categories of the Cumbria Food Awards 2024. This remarkable achievement highlights the restaurant’s continued rise in the world of fine dining, especially following the acquisition of its first Michelin star last year.

The awards, renowned for honoring the cream of the crop in Cumbria’s vibrant hospitality sector, have seen the Pentonbridge Inn compete for the coveted ‘Restaurant of the Year’ title. Adding to the establishment’s accolades, Head Chef Chris Archer is vying for the ‘Chef of the Year’ award, while General Manager Ross Bell is making waves in the ‘Service of the Year’ category, a tribute to outstanding front-of-house excellence.

Chef Chris expressed his enthusiasm: “Cumbria is home to a thriving hospitality scene so to be nominated in three categories is a fantastic achievement for the team. I think it reflects the dedication and hard work of the whole team and our commitment to ensuring our guests have a memorable experience from exceptional service to excellent food and drink.”

The Cumbria Food Awards, now in their third year, are set to take place at Kendal College on Thursday, March 14, with the ceremony hosted by the charismatic TV chef and presenter, Simon Rimmer, best known from Sunday Brunch. The event will celebrate the winners in 15 categories, chosen by an independent panel of judges. Attracting more than 1,400 entries and public nominations, the awards are a testament to the burgeoning food and drink scene in the region.

Pentonbridge Inn, distinguished as one of Cumbria’s 11 Michelin-starred restaurants, is a jewel in the county’s culinary crown and boasts the highest number of Michelin stars outside of London. Nestled in the serene countryside near the Scottish border at Penton, North Cumbria, the restaurant is renowned for its eight-course set tasting menu. Chef Archer, in collaboration with the garden team at Netherby Hall, focuses on seasonal ingredients that influence his innovative dishes, ensuring a unique dining experience that evolves with the seasons and local produce.

For those eager to indulge in this culinary adventure, Pentonbridge Inn welcomes guests from Wednesday to Saturday, with the exclusive eight-course menu also available for lunch on Fridays and Saturdays.

For more details and to experience the enchantment of Pentonbridge Inn, visit their website at www.pentonbridgeinn.co.uk.