On 9 September 2009 the founders of the Zagat Survey, Tim and Nina Zagat presented Philip Newman-Hall, Director and General Manager of Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons the number one spot for service during its annual event to laud all the very best in the hospitality industry. Le Manoir also claimed the fourth position for food, with the same points as the top three restaurants and number two for décor, with the same points as the number one restaurant.

At the important event at Greens Restaurant and Oyster Bar, Cornhill, chef patron Raymond Blanc and the team at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons were applauded for the quality and levels of service, which were judged as second to none.

The Zagat survey – known as the ‘burgundy bible’ – is one of the world’s most respected sources for discerning foodies and restaurant fiends who want the low-down on quality establishments to visit, and has over the years, become a symbol of truth and quality in its own right.

The 2010 Zagat London Restaurants survey includes ratings and reviews of 1,166 eateries in the city and surrounding areas as voted on by 5,562 passionate gourmands. The surveyors ate out on average 2.2 times per week, culminating in 630,000 meals over the course of the year.

Raymond Blanc commented:

“In these times of uncertainty around the globe, it is vital to try and excel in all areas – and my team and I are fanatical when it comes to delivery of service. The terms luxury and quality have come to mean so many different things to so many different people, but the one thing that ensures standout in the hospitality industry (along with quality of offering) is the service that each and every guest receives. What they remember of the experience and what they tell their friends about.

“ My team and I are very honoured to receive this award from Zagat. I am constantly searching for ways to improve every single facet of Le Manoir, which remains my pride and joy. This year (as we celebrate 25 years) has been one of incredible excitement filled with dreams and new ideas.

It is a long cherished dream of mine to achieve perfection and that is what we strive to do at all times and will continue to do for the next 25 years and beyond!”

Since opening in 1984, Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons has achieved the highest awards of any restaurant and country house hotel in the UK and is regarded as one of the very best in Europe. One of the few restaurants in the world to retain two Michelin stars for 25 consecutive years, Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons remains a Mecca for gourmets the world over.

The Zagat award adds to the firmament of success that Blanc has had over the past 25 years and as far as he is concerned, paves the way for further successes in the future.

For more information about Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons visit www.manoir.com