A pub that was failing in 2018 has risen to great heights, winning numerous accolades so far in 2024.
The Brewers was bought by Rattlesden villagers in 2018, who were keen to ensure another rural pub wasn’t lost.
Now, already in 2024 The Brewers has been named one of the UK's top 100 gastropubs by Estrella Damm and has retained its prestigious two AA rosettes.
The pub also features in the Michelin Guide and has been named one of the prettiest pub gardens in the UK by The Good Food Guide.
"Business is doing well and we are really pleased," said Sheona Fraser, the pub's owner.
"It's been an exciting time for us.
"We bought the pub in 2018 because it was failing, and the fact that it is doing really well is totally amazing.
"Retaining our AA stars and being named among the best by Estrella Damm has been completely wonderful and heartening."
Ms Fraser puts a lot of the pub's recent success down to Head Chef Matt Avery, who is an experienced chef with a history in dietetics, the science of applying nutrition to someone's diet.
READ MORE: Suffolk pub's beer garden named one of the best in the UK
"He comes at food from a very scientific angle," said Ms Fraser.
"But it's all food that people want to eat."
The pub's Sunday roast draws hundreds of people in each month, with the team regularly serving between 60 and 70 people each week.
Mr Avery also spent some time learning how to smoke food in Texas, and the pub offers a smoked street food menu on a Monday, with plans to host these in the garden during the warmer months.
The pub offers a set lunch menu, costing £25 for two courses and £28 for three, which has proven extremely popular, and an extensive a la carte menu.
Ms Fraser also recognises the team's role in the pub's success.
"It is really important to have a good team who can work well together.
"This is the best team we have ever had."
The pub has just renovated one of the bar areas to make a lounge for people to enjoy drinks and bar snacks.
The team has also announced a collaboration with the University of Suffolk, in which the students there will serve a tasting menu to The Brewers diners on March 14 alongside head chef Mr Avery.
"I really want to promote young people getting qualifications in hospitality rather than seeing it as a stop-gap until something else comes along," said Ms Fraser.
With the development of the smoked street food menu, including the purchase of a professional smoker, it sounds like the pub is set for another busy year.
"We are excited to maintain our high standards," said Ms Fraser.
"Something is working!"
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