They are the industry’s most prestigious accolades and, at the AA's Hospitality Awards, held last night at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Restaurant James Sommerin joined an elite group of UK restaurants to be awarded four AA rosettes.
James Sommerin, who first emerged as a force to be reckoned with as head chef of the
Crown at Whitebrook, winning and retaining one of Wales' few Michelin stars, opened his
eponymous restaurant in 2014.
This latest honour caps a glittering three years that has also seen him achieve such coveted accolades as a Michelin star and the Hospitality Awards’ Restaurant of the Year for Wales.
Sommerin said, 'What can I say? Wow!! This is the highest rating I've ever achieved with AA and I'm ecstatic. I need to thank our team, as without them - as we keep saying - none of our achievements would be possible. It's great to know our hard work is paying off.'
Restaurant James Sommerin is housed in an imposing Edwardian building, Beachcliff, that commands a stunning position off the Penarth esplanade. Its success has been built on a simple philosophy – to offer food that is honest and comforting.
James’ focus is on hearty and flavoursome fare made with only the finest seasonal
ingredients, locally sourced where possible, whether it’s fish from a local Cardiff
fishmonger, the finest meat to hail from Cwmbran or vegetables from Barry Island.
Welsh-inspired dishes, including Wild sea bass with langoustine, ginger & artichoke;
Guinea fowl, sweetcorn, baked potato & truffle and, of course, Welsh lamb, are
complemented by fare inspired by slightly sunnier climes, Liquid pea ravioli, Serrano ham
& Parmesan among them.
Guests can enjoy these exquisite creations either a la carte or via a six or nine course
tasting menu. For a gastronomic experience without parallel, they can also indulge in a
14-course tasting menu prepared in front of them at the chef’s table.
Such fabulous food deserves an equally impressive accompaniment and Restaurant
James Sommerin boasts a seriously impressive wine list, including choices from
biodynamic, organic and boutique vineyards. The matched wine flight is a particular
highlight.
The restaurant’s de´cor reflects the comfortable style of service, with materials that include
Welsh slate and locally-sourced woods. A large window into the kitchen allows diners to
gaze in wonder as the dishes are created, whilst an entirely glass frontage offers
gorgeous views of Penarth’s beach and over the Severn Estuary below.
A true family enterprise, Sommerin runs the restaurant with his wife Louise while the couple’s daughter, Georgia, works alongside her father in the kitchen.
Restaurant James Sommerin is open Tuesday-Sunday from 12pm for lunch and from
