Culloden Estate celebrates culinary excellence with two AA Rosettes

26th September 2025

The 5-star Culloden Estate & Spa has announced that its flagship restaurant, Vespers, has been awarded the prestigious Two AA Rosettes, recognising the outstanding quality, creativity and consistency of its dining experience.

The AA inspectors praised Vespers for delivering a ‘blend of classic and contemporary feel’ and the service was highlighted as warm, friendly and attentive, with staff demonstrating excellent knowledge throughout.

The award reinforces the Culloden’s position as one of Northern Ireland’s leading luxury destinations, combining world-class hospitality, exceptional food, first-class service and stunning surroundings overlooking Belfast Lough.

Food quality impressed across multiple visits, with the inspectors describing the dishes as ‘most enjoyable’ and ‘executed perfectly with good balance and depth of flavour’. Dishes such as Langoustine Ravioli; Roast Cod Fillet with Goan Curry and Potato Rosti and Grant’s Sugar Pit Pork Chop with Wild Mushroom, Mustard and Fennel Pollen were singled out for their refinement, creativity and precision to execution.

Cormac Fadden, General Manager of the Culloden Estate & Spa said:  “We are delighted to have been recognised with the coveted Two AA Rosettes. It is a true reflection of the hard work and passion of our culinary team, led by Executive Head Chef Mark Begley, who are committed to creating memorable dining experiences that showcase the very best of local produce. This recognition follows the Culloden being named the Northern Ireland Food Lovers Choice at the Good Food Ireland Awards 2024 and once again reinforces our reputation as a destination for exceptional food.”

Mark Begley, Executive Head Chef added: “I am incredibly proud to work alongside such a talented and passionate team. We take pride in creating menus that surprise and delight, championing the finest local ingredients while presenting them in new and exciting ways that reflect our heritage and our innovative approach to dining. This award is not only a recognition of the culinary team’s dedication and creativity, but also the outstanding efforts of our front of house colleagues who ensure every guest enjoys a truly memorable experience at the 5-star Culloden Estate & Spa.”

For more information on the Culloden’s culinary offering, including Vespers new autumn menu created with the finest seasonal, local ingredients, go to cullodenestateandspa.com.