It was a unanimous decision to award Brucan as the winner of Best Food category, following an impressive HQ visit and an inspiring final round.
Sustainability was a core strength of the group, being at the heart of the business, shining through not just in environmental policy but in creating a business model that will endure.
Food is largely sourced from smaller farms and suppliers that promise quality and craftmanship.
Sustainable initiatives
Sustainable practices including regenerative farming and fishing display a commitment to the environment while ensuring produce is of the highest quality.
Sourcing whole animals and fish where appropriate allows for the company to get the most out of its produce alongside maximising value for money for the company and its customers. The nose to tail ethos is beneficial for all involved.
Consistency is a clear theme of the business, in staffing levels, investment, kitchen standards and produce.
The business has a focus on delivering the same dish on the menu every time, no matter what day or time or chef, a customer visits.
Passionate operators
James and Nick are clearly extremely passionate about their team and the culture they have created within the business, it was admirable and a breath of fresh air to hear values including investing heavily into staff that will be the future of the business.
Notable developments in the past 12 months included back of house rota planning technology and food waste reduction through greater communication between bar and kitchen staff. These two developments alongside ongoing endeavour for constant improvement and consistency.
Seasonal produce is at the core of the company’s food values, meaning it is continually striking the balance between high quality and accessible pricing.
The standard of the menu impressed the judges including what is a generous set-menu lunch offer of 2 courses for £23 or three for £27 from the main al la carte menu. Brucan stood out in offering guests high quality honest, British food at an impressively reasonable price point.
