A 3AA Rosette forest hideaway in the UK’s newest World Heritage Site is adding some new flavour with the arrival of restaurant manager Monika Zurawska.
More than ten years after leaving the then Michelin starred Holbeck Ghyll County House Hotel, Monika has taken on a new role at The Cottage in the Wood near Keswick.
With over 12 years’ experience, Monika studied Hospitality Management in her native Poland. Since then she has fulfilled spells at 2 and 3 AA Rosette establishments across the UK from The Peacock at Rowlsey to Masa Restaurant in Derby. Monika also spent time as Restaurant Manager at The Rampsbeck Country House Hotel in Ullswater.
Co-Owner of The Cottage in the Wood, Kath Berney says: “We’re thrilled to have Monika join us. Her enthusiasm and experience is fantastic and will be a real addition to the relatively new team here. Our Head Chef, Rich Collingwood has recently retained our 3 AA Rosettes and his drive to really capture the taste of Cumbria is getting a lot of attention.”
Monika hopes she can draw on her wide-ranging CV to enhance the customer experience at the renowned foodie retreat near Keswick.
She says, “My experience has taught me that today’s customers are looking for a more relaxed and informal ambience whilst enjoying fine food. However, it is equally important that the restaurant team can demonstrate knowledge and skills. We have a very ambitious chef in Rich Collingwood and it’s important my team hit the same level.”
“Cumbria’s fine dining offer is incredible, and I’m thrilled to be a part of such a reputable community and establishment in ‘The Cottage’. I love working with people and making sure they enjoy their time and I just want that to come across.”
As well as the restaurant at The Cottage in the Wood, there are eight bedrooms with garden, mountain and spectacular forest views. It has a well-established foodie reputation, most recently winning Cumbria Tourism’s Taste Cumbria Award in 2016, but is equally popular with walkers, nature-lovers and adventure seekers.
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