Culloden Estate and Spa awarded two AA rosettes for culinary excellence

Wednesday, September 24, 2025. 12:22pm
The 5-star Culloden Estate and Spa's flagship restaurant, Vespers, has been awarded Two AA Rosettes, recognising the outstanding quality, creativity and consistency of its dining experience. Pictured are  Cormac Fadden, General Manager, Culloden Estate and Spa; Ross McAllister, Executive Sous Chef; Larrissa Young, Chef de Partie; Mark Begley, Executive Head Chef; Grace Dugan, Junior Sous Chef; Oliver Burns, Head Chef, Vespers and Robyn Cole, Vespers Restaurant Manager.

Flagship restaurant, Vespers at The 5-star Culloden Estate and Spa has been awarded Two AA Rosettes

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

The AA Rosette scheme celebrates culinary excellence and awards restaurants with Rosettes based on the quality of food and preparation.

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 Estate and Spa’s position as one of Northern Ireland’s leading luxury destinations. Overlooking the picturesque Belfast Lough it is focused on combining world-class hospitality, exceptional food and first-class service. 

Food quality impressed the inspectors across multiple visits, with dishes described 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 as well as Grant’s Sugar Pit Pork Chop with Wild Mushroom, Mustard and Fennel Pollen were singled out for their refinement, creativity and precision to execution. 

Vespers Restaurant at Culloden Estate and Spa wins 2 AA rosettes

Commenting on the award Cormac Fadden, General Manager of the Culloden Estate and 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.”

Speaking of his pride upon receiving the award Mark Begley, Executive Head Chef said: 

“I am incredibly proud to work alongside such a talented and passionate team. Our passion lies in creating menus that surprise and delight, champion 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 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 www.cullodenestateandspa.com 

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