Bar crowned best in county for third year
AN AWARD-WINNING bar has been named the best in East Lothian for the third year in a row.
The Broc Bar, at Gullane’s The Bonnie Badger, scooped the accolade, courtesy of the National Pub & Bar Awards last week.
The business was recognised by judges for demonstrating excellence across a number of elements, including its food and drink offering, its commitment to local sourcing, standards of service excellence, a creative interior, its dedication to team training, support and engagement, and a proactive approach to sustainability.
The Bonnie Badger, owned by husband-and-wife team Tom and Michaela Kitchin, opened in 2018 in the former premises of The Golf Inn.
Award-winning chef Tom said: “It has been an incredibly busy year at The Bonnie Badger as we celebrated five years since opening.
“From partnerships with the Genesis Scottish Open, Seedlip Alcoholfree Spirits and Sam Heughan’s Sassenach Spirits, to fundraising events with sporting legends such as Graeme Souness and supporting the next generation of footballing talent at Gullane Athletic FC – it has been an exciting year for our visitors, our local community, and indeed our team.
“For us, East Lothian is a really special place. We feel incredibly lucky that The Bonnie Badger is located in the heart of the enviable coastline, giving us access to some of the best produce in the world.
“We truly appreciate the support and recognition from the National Pub & Bar Awards and congratulate all of the other winners from across the UK who are flying the flag for their own area’s food and drink.”
The National Pub & Bar Awards aim to showcase the UK’s finest pubs and bars on a national scale, celebrating the best venues in 94 counties across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
When Mr and Mrs Kitchin opened Broc Bar – which serves bar snacks including broccoli tempura with Asian dressing, and Lindisfarne oysters with shallot vinegar and lemon, as well as full meals – at The Bonnie Badger, they set out to create a place that put great pub food front and centre, while creating a warm and welcoming space for the local community to enjoy.
We feel incredibly lucky that The Bonnie Badger is located in the heart of the enviable coastline