Restaurant Andrew Fairlie tops Harden's best 100 UK restaurants 2023 list

Restaurant Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles in Perthshire has been named the UK’s top restaurant in Harden’s Top 100 Best UK Restaurants list 2023.

Ratings and reviews in the guide, which is now in its 32nd year, are based on 30,000 reports from 3,000 diners.

Head chef Stephen McLaughlin and general manager Dale Dewsbury have been leading the two Michelin-starred institution since the death of founder Andrew Fairlie in 2019.

Restaurant Andrew Fairlie won its first Michelin star within one year of opening in 2002 and received its second in 2006.

It offers French cuisine influenced by seasonal Scottish ingredients, ranging from shellfish in the winter months to fruit, vegetables and herbs produced in the restaurant’s own walled garden during the summer.

The diners’ poll described the restaurant as a “memory to be treasured” and praised its dishes prepared with “impeccable skill and creativity”.

McLaughlin said: “This time four years ago, we were dealing with the terrible loss of our wonderful friend and mentor, Andrew Fairlie, and committed to maintain his incredible legacy.

“I’m extremely proud that we’re here today achieving these fantastic accolades. People knew Andrew as a champion of great food and service, and this ethos remains the same. We have a fantastic, talented team who are all invested and continue to be driven to maintain - and exceed - the standards set by chef Andrew.”

Peter Harden, co-founder of Harden’s, said: “Andrew Fairlie may sadly no longer be with us but his spirit lives on in this restaurant which bears his name. Reaching the top spot this year is a huge credit to his long-time lieutenants."

Evelyn’s Table at the Blue Posts in London was ranked second in the list while the Waterside Inn in Bray came third.

The south-east was crowned the strongest dining region, with Cornwall named as the county with the most Top 500 listings (18) after London.

Both Birmingham and Edinburgh secured three restaurants in the Top 100 listings, while Edinburgh aws the city with the most listings in the Top 500 (17), excluding London.