05/01/2011

Hastings Takes Double Restaurant Accolade

Two local establishments have been named among the best restaurants of 2010 as the prestigious Sunday Life newspaper celebrated the eateries that stood out for their food writers.

La Scala at the Stormont Hotel, Belfast (pictured) and The Percy French Inn at Slieve Donard Resort and Spa, Co Down have been named as two of the top performers with La Scala at the Stormont Hotel, Belfast praised for its selection of fine dining dishes with a focus on locally sourced produce.

Dishes that received a special mention included, 'melt-in-the-mouth' Kilkeel Scampi, the Fillet of Salmon that was 'cooked to perfection' and the 8oz Irish Beef Fillet and Bramley Apple Upside-Down Cake.

General Manager of the Stormont Hotel, Gerry Carty, said: "Along with every restaurant throughout the Hastings Hotels Group, La Scala Bistro at the Stormont is genuinely passionate about food, and its commitment to using only the best locally sourced ingredients is immediately clear from its menu.

"We look for ingredients that stand out from the rest - from where they originate, to the way they are produced and especially for their flavour.

"The fact that we have great relationships with so many excellent local suppliers makes that mission all the easier, and our new open plan kitchen means guests have the extra treat of watching our busy chefs hard at work, using those wonderful ingredients," he said.

Meanwhile, The Percy French Inn at Slieve Donard also impressed critics with a 'delicious meal in relaxed surroundings'.

The 'crispy and tasty' Thai Fish Cakes, 'mouthwatering' Homemade Fish and Chips, Roast Duck, and Banoffi Pie all received high praise.

Director and General Manager of Slieve Donard Resort and Spa, John Toner, said: "The atmospheric pub-style bistro of The Percy French Inn allows us to provide top quality food in cosy, informal surroundings.

"People love coming here to settle in by the fire and have delicious comfort food with a pint, it's the perfect way to spend an evening or lazy Sunday," he enthused.

(BMcC/GK)

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