In a first for UK cuisine, Simon Rogan's L'Enclume has taken top global honours in La Liste 2024.
The three Michelin-starred restaurant in the Lake District shares the number one spot with six other eateries on La Liste’s Top 1,000 Restaurants.
It is the first time a UK chef has ever seized this distinction in the eight years since La Liste was launched.
Nestled in historic Cartmel, L’Enclume has been a gastronomic beacon since opening its doors in 2002.
Set in a former 13th-century blacksmith’s workshop, the restaurant places locality front and centre on its menus.
There is a focus on the ingredients that are cultivated at chef Rogan's own Cartmel Valley farm, with dishes embodying the flavours of the region.
The accolade comes after a year of special anniversaries for L'Enclume.
This time last year, it celebrated two decades of operation.
Simultaneously, it secured its third Michelin star, making it the first northern English restaurant and just one of eight UK eateries boasting this status.
This year has been a year of expansion for Chef Rogan with new ventures taking root in Malta and Thailand.
La Liste entered the culinary scene in 2015 with a directory of just 1,000 restaurants.
Today it surveys 195 countries and even identifies a top 1,000 hotels.
The handpicked selection of notable establishments is scored on reviews, guidebook mentions, and trusted publications.
Simon Rogan, not a stranger to awards, expressed deep honour and humility at the recognition, saying: "I'm deeply honoured and humbled by the recognition of L’Enclume as the top British restaurant in La Liste 1000 2024.
"Being listed alongside so many brilliant restaurants we've always admired, many of which we've had the privilege of connecting with, visiting, and collaborating, is an immense privilege.
"This achievement symbolises two decades of dedication, perseverance, and a bold choice my wife and I made in 2002, investing everything to open a restaurant in the small but wonderful village of Cartmel in The Lakes. We proudly remain an independent group of restaurants, driven by talent, hard work, and creativity.
"At the core of our journey is my exceptional team at L’Enclume. They embody unmatched dedication and passion in the industry. Their drive and commitment are the driving force behind our continuous pursuit of excellence and innovation."
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