Galvin brothers voted Chefs' Chefs 2011 at AA Hospitality Awards

26-Sep-2011 - Last updated on 26-Apr-2021 at 20:06 GMT

Chris and Jeff Galvin with presenter Sophie Raworth at the AA Awards

Galvin brothers Chris and Jeff picked up the prestigious Chefs' Chef award at the AA Hospitality Awards last night.

The pair, who run four restaurants under Galvin Restaurants, were voted for by their peers, who recognised their huge commitment to the industry.

"It is not difficult to see why the Galvin brothers are so well respected in the industry. They are both committed, hard working, totally hands on, passionate about developing young people and above all very modest and humble," said Simon Numphud of the AA.

The brothers, who have two Michelin stars and 10 AA Rosettes between them, also work with the industry and have set up the charity Galvin Chance, helping youngsters gain training and employment in leading hotels and restaurants. They said winning the award was 'everything' to them.

"Firstly as it is voted for by our peers and secondly seeing the list of previous winners makes it easy to see how special it really is. We have had a long association with the AA, which we are very proud of and the award is one of the highlights of our careers. Our team are thrilled for us and it is testament to their hard work and dedication."

Lifetime achievement

The Galvins were among 20 individuals and companies receiving accolades for excellence in their field at the ceremony at the London Hilton on Park Lane where the 2012 AA Guides to UK hotels, restaurants pubs and B&Bs were also launched.

Peter Lederer, chairman of Gleneagles, was presented with the Lifetime Achievement award for his 'significant contribution' to the industry over the past 40 years. Lederer, who started at the resort as general manager in 1984 was praised for developing it into a world class resort hotel.

Businesses picking up awards included Thistle Hotels (Hotel Group of the Year) The Hand and Flowers in Marlow, voted Restaurant of the Year for England, The Savoy (London Hotel of the Year) and The Feathered Nest Inn, voted Pub of the Year for England.

The awards were presented by the BBC's Sophie Raworth. Chef Pierre Gagnaire was in charge of the kitchen team while entertainment was provided by Britain's Got Talent stars Out of the Blue.

The full list of winners of the AA Hospitality Awards 2011 are:

Lifetime Achievement - Peter Lederer

Chefs' Chef - Jeff and Chris Galvin

Hotel of the Year: