A Kilmaurs restaurant smashed it at a recent awards ceremony when it was named as Ayrshire’s best.
The Glasshouse Restaurant, nestled in Rowallan Castle Estate, was bestowed with the honour at Ayrshire Retail Business Awards 2019.
General manager George Campbell, 29, was proud to accept the best restaurant in Ayrshire award on behalf of hard-working staff.
He shares the running of the family-run eaterie with his sister Katy, 25. They are Ayrshire born-and-bred with their family roots in Waterside.
The awards are part of the bigger Scottish Business Awards with each of the finalists nominated by their customers.
George said: “We didn’t expect to win.
“And you don’t know who you are up against until you get there.
“It came as a bit of a shock and I hadn’t prepared anything to say. So I just walked up, a few short words and that was me away.
“We went along as a big team. Everyone from front of house, the kitchen guys were there, as were housekeeping.
“We made sure everyone was represented and I just saw it as a good opportunity to have a good night out with the staff, and what came of it would be.
“Katy and I have been running the Glasshouse for about six years and it’s been a tough old trot at times so it’s great to get the recognition.
“I think what’s nice is that it is publicly nominated.”
The restaurant enjoys an envious setting in the castle grounds with superb views but George believes that good food and service are just as important.
He continued: “Our executive chef Ian Mackie is very keen to ensure that everything is made to order.
“A lot of places people just want their food and away but we still very much place an emphasis on the experience as a whole. It’s a nice package we offer here. We encourage a friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere.”
