A WESTBOURNE restaurant is celebrating after receiving industry critics’ recognition just six months after it opened.

Rock Westbourne, on the corner of Landseer and Poole Road, which threw open the doors in November 2012, has been awarded one AA Rosette for culinary excellence on the AA Restaurant Guide’s first visit.

Nick Atkins, Co-founder of Rock Restaurants and Executive Chef, said: “We also had a surprise visit from the very secretive Michelin guide, after the inspector received numerous recommendations from its readers.

“The inspector requested to speak with myself and told me how impressed he was with the quality of food and service. He said that he would be giving the site a mention in the 2013/14 Michelin guide.”

He added: “We are so surprised and happy to have had these inspections so soon after opening.

“It can sometimes take a number of years to get on the guide’s radar and it’s a great boost for the team, who have put in so much effort to make this such a great restaurant here in Westbourne.

“The Rock ethos is all about quality, food, wine and service in a relaxed environment, so we don’t actively chase these recommendations as they sometimes require a more formal style of service.

“However, we happily receive them as it’s a chef’s dream.”

The restaurant is currently running a promotion offering 25 per cent off the food bill when ordered before 7pm.

Call 01202 765696 or visit rockrestaurants.co.uk