Two pubs crowned Britain's best roast dinners

The competition seeks to recognise the UK’s best roast dinners, and scores meals by their quality, service, cleanliness, value for money, presentation and taste. 

Winners were decided by a judging panel that included executive chef for Unilever Food Solutions Alex Hall.  

Reacting to the win, head chef and owner of the Eight Bells James Rogers said it was a “real honour” to have the roast recognised. 

Rogers added: “We’re hugely passionate about using the best quality ingredients, local where possible and always seasonal and fresh. We cook our meat at regular intervals throughout Sunday service, to ensure that every customer gets a fresh cut from lunch through to the evening.” 

The Eight Bells is an 18th​ century pub recently taken over by James and Annie Rogers. The winning roast was a rump of local beef served with all the trimmings. 

“We also have a fantastic team of chefs and front of house staff, who are as passionate about great food and brilliant service as I am,” said Rogers. 

He added: “We look after them, feed them and renumerate them well – it’s simple really, and it means that they respect you and will stay with you for the longer term.” 

Perch on Lancing Beach’s winning veggie roast was their ‘Ultimate Sharing Roast’. The Cumin Spiced Roasted Squash and Lentil Wellington was served with roast potatoes, Sussex charmer cauliflower cheese, market vegetables, homemade Yorkshire puddings, stuffing and gravy. 

The café opened in 2015 in the largest Carbon Zero building in the south east of England. 

Announcing the winners, senior marketing manager for Knorr Professional Kate Drew, said: “This year the competition saw an exceptionally high standard of entries from establishments all across the UK.  

“Winning this award is an incredible achievement and a testament to the work that the team at The Eight Bells and Perch On Lancing Beach have clearly put in to serving outstanding roast dinners.”