Birmingham Hippodrome has become the first theatre in the UK to be awarded an AA Rosette.
The coveted One AA Rosette, which is only awarded to around 10% of UK restaurants, was given to the theatre’s Circle Restaurant for the skill, care and excellent quality ingredients which go into the menus thus achieving standards that stand out in the local area.
Birmingham Hippodrome’s culinary team is headed by Head Chef Chris Bratt-Rose who takes advantage of seasonal produce, sources locally wherever possible and adapts his menus on a regular basis.
Gary Aymes, Director of Hospitality and Service said “A huge congratulations to Chris and his hard working team. Bearing in mind the Hippodrome is one of the most visited theatre’s in the UK, the service time restraints brought about by ‘curtain up times’ and the 95 seat capacity of the restaurant the team do a fantastic job producing a consistently high standard of food and service.”
The award follows on from a review from local food critic, Paul Fulford, a blog from respected food writer Richard McComb and a Certificate of Excellence grading from Trip Advisor.
The AA’s Rosettes were introduced over 50 years ago as an award system reflecting and recognising the first nationwide scheme for assessing the quality of food served by restaurants and hotels. The awards are made solely on the basis of a meal visit or visits by one or more of the AA’s hotel and restaurant inspectors, who have unrivalled breadth and depth of experience in assessing quality.
Simon Numphud, AA Hotel Services Business manager commented: “The achievement of a one AA Rosette Award recognises high standards, consistency and precision, serving food prepared with care and with evident selection of fresh, seasonal quality ingredients. Good understanding and use of technical skills are demonstrated in the cooking, with clarity of flavours shining through.”
Birmingham Hippodrome’s stylish Circle Restaurant, situated just a short walk away from the auditorium, offers a relaxing dining experience with tempting modern menus and an extensive wine list. It is open two hours before curtain up on performance days.
