L'Enclume in Cartmel, Cumbria, helmed by Simon Rogan, has secured the top position in the Hardens Top 100 Best UK Restaurants list.
The Lake District's three-Michelin-starred restaurant, L'Enclume, has consistently appeared in the restaurant guide's rankings every year since its first edition in 2011. However, this marks the first occasion it has claimed the top spot on the list.
The Harden's guide determines its ratings and reviews through a comprehensive process, drawing on feedback from a substantial survey of 2,500 diners, encompassing a total of 30,000 reports.
Diners' feedback lauded L'Enclume as providing 'a completely faultless experience,' highlighting the restaurant's delivery of 'beautifully orchestrated food' within a 17-course tasting menu.
Peter Harden, co-founder of Harden's, said: 'Coming in at £300+ [L'Enclume] is certainly one of the higher priced restaurants in our listings, but we see none of the resistance from diners with regards to paying those prices that we've witnessed at other top establishments. Those who've made the pilgrimage think it's money very well spent.'
Rogan expressed that the restaurant securing the top spot was 'a testament to the amazing year we've had.'
Outlaw's New Road in Port Isaac claimed the second spot, marking a significant ascent from its 44th position last year. Meanwhile, Restaurant Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles experienced a shift from first to third position in the rankings.
Completing the top five, Paul Ainsworth in Padstow secured the fourth position, and Endo at the Rotunda in London earned the fifth spot in the rankings.
The 33rd edition of the Harden's guide, published this week, introduced new additions to its list, including Kenny Atkinson's Solstice in Newcastle, Adam Handling's Ugly Butterfly in St Ives, and Grace & Savour in Hampton in Arden.
The count of top 100 restaurants located in London has reached an unprecedented low. Traditionally, establishments in the capital contribute 45% to 50% of the rankings; however, this year, only 36 of the best UK restaurants are based in London.
Harden added 'Whilst 12 months is too little data for firm pronouncements, this swing to the shires may reflect the increasing excellence of dining out across the country.'