Cotswold pub named Michelin's pub of the year 2015

(AFP) A recently renovated pub in the Cotswolds that serves “first-rate food” like traditional English pot roast, crisp pigs’ head croquettes, and crab lasagna has been crowned Pub of the Year in the 2015 edition of the Michelin guide.

At The Wild Rabbit in Kingham, south central England, diners sink into leather sofas, and tuck into hearty but elegant fare against a backdrop of exposed brick walls, weathered wood and the warmth of open log fires.

"This Cotswold pub is a chocolate box delight,” said editor Rebecca Burr in a statement.

“Stylish yet rustic, spacious yet cozy, it offers a convivial welcome, knock-out bedrooms and, of course, first-rate food."

In the kitchen, chef Adam Caisley uses ingredients sourced from British farmers, local artisan producers, and the inn’s own organic garden to develop a menu that changes with the seasons.

Currently, the lunch and dinner menu includes dishes like goat’s cheese ravioli with confit tomato, roast rump of lamb, and cacao nib-crusted venison with girolles, celeriac and figs.

The move towards sourcing ingredients from local, artisan producers has become a common thread in the latest edition of the Michelin pubs guide, says Burr.

Pubs, a quintessential part of British life, often serve as the heart of a community, particularly in rural areas, and its value cannot be underestimated, she said.

"With this in mind, customers are now demanding that chefs use more and more local produce and want to see local recipes and specialties on the menu. Chefs and pub owners are not only embracing this idea but some are taking it a stage further by growing their own fruit, vegetables and herbs, and by keeping chickens and rearing pigs."

The new guide includes 590 pubs from the UK and Ireland, 70 of which are new entries, and features more pictures and a simplified layout. The Bib Gourmand section -- good value eats -- features 43 addresses.

Selections are based on the quality of the food.

"Pubs are a quintessential part of British life and the standard of food being served in them continues to reach new heights.”

The Michelin Eating Out in Pubs Guide 2015 is in book stores and retails for £14 (€15 in Ireland).