A RESTAURANT in Penarth has been named the best in Wales at the AA awards.

James Sommerin won the restaurant of the year for Wales award at a ceremony at Grosvenor House Hotel in London on Monday (September 26).

They were selected by a panel of industry experts, in recognition of excellence and success within their chosen category, having shown a significant improvement in the preceding 12-18 months and proving their dedication to raising industry standards and enhancing both their guest and diner experiences.

James Sommerin opened the restaurant on The Esplanade in 2014.

It comes on the back of other successes for the restaurant including recently being named the best in Wales in the good food guide run by Waitrose for the third year running.

Mr Sommerin's wife, Louise Sommerin, said that they are "feeling very proud."

She tweeted: "I want to congratulate my husband and daughter (Georgia) on our fantastic award at AA awards.

"Very proud of them and our team."

Mr Sommerin also expressed his pride saying that the night had been "very humbling" and praised his team for achieving so much in so little time.

AA inspector, Catherine McAlpine said: "James Sommerin continues to develop his talent in this restaurant bearing his name.

"Quality ingredients, local sourcing and accurate cooking are all evident with dishes designed to showcase the best of Wales.

"James is also nurturing new talent with a children’s cookery course which is now a popular addition to this local restaurant.

Guests at the event, hosted by the comedian and actor Hugh Dennis, were treated to a gastronomic menu created by the 2015 AA Chef’s Chef, Daniel Clifford.

All the winners will appear in the latest editions of the 2017 AA hotel, restaurant and pub guides which were launched at the event.