The Oarsman named Newcomer of the Year

An exclusive ceremony at this year’s number two Top 50 Gastropub – the Unruly Pig in Bromeswell, Suffolk – the Oarsman was presented with the Newcomer of the Year award.

Nigel Sutcliffe and James Mclean reopened the Marlow-based pub in September 2021. The duo, who were co-founders of restaurant consultancy Truffle Hunting, have worked together for more than two decades.

Spectacular pub​

Their expertise has resulted in the Oarsman serving bistro-style, seasonal dishes from the open kitchen and small plates from the charcuterie and larder counter, the pub’s menu changes daily.

Judges said: “All in all, a spectacular pub, with an extensive and interesting wine offer, which complements its high quality, delectable dishes, while remaining at the heart of the customers it serves.”

Other specialist awards included Front of House Team of the Year, which was presented to Brook House in Fulham, west London.

Prestigious list​

Head chef of the Hand & Flowers, in Marlow, Buckinghamshire, Tom De Keyser was named the 2023 Chef of the Year while the Baring in Islington, north London was awarded Highest New Entry, coming in on the Top 50 Gastropubs list at number 23.

The Parkers Arms in Newton-in-Bowland, Lancashire took the top spot on the latest list​, while the Unruly Pig came in at number two and fellow Lancashire pub the Freemasons at Wiswell was third.

The top 10 gastropubs are:

1. Parkers Arms, Newton-in-Bowland, Lancashire
2. The Unruly Pig, Woodbridge, Suffolk
3. Freemasons at Wiswell, Clitheroe, Lancashire
4. The Sportsman, Seasalter, Kent
5. The Kentish Hare, Tunbridge Wells, Kent
6. The Angel at Hetton, Hetton, North Yorkshire
7. The White Swan at Fence, Fence, Lancashire
8. The Hand & Flowers, Marlow, Buckinghamshire
9. The Fordwich Arms, Fordwich, Kent
10. The Red Lion & Sun, Highgate, north London

Find the full list here​​​.