A pub in Truro has been rewarded for supplying some of the best food in the country.

Publicans Tom and Katie Hannon of The Rising Sun, Truro, received the prestigious accolade of Best Food at Punch Pubs & Co’s Publican of the Year Awards on Tuesday, September 12.

The gala, held at the pub company’s headquarters in Burton-On-Trent, hosted over 200 guests on a night that celebrated Punch’s very best Publicans and Management Partners.

The multi-award winning pub, received the prestigious award and was recognised for developing their gastro-style menu as well as showcasing the best qualities of a modern pub.

Head chef Tom has rubbed shoulders with various Michelin-star chefs, and has worked in some of the countries most renowned kitchens.

Delighted to have been recognised in this category, he said: “From a young age I wanted to take the philosophy of fine dining into the pub. When people say ‘it’s only pub grub’ I think why is that a thing? It’s the same pan, the same oil and the same produce I’ve used in a Michelin-star kitchen – the standards in pubs today are so much greater than 20/30 years ago.

“When it comes to food, there are no rules. With fine dining, there has to be a level of complexity but with pubs you can experiment. I’m a huge believer in that you can do whatever you want. There’s so much scope, high-end or simple, you’re in control.”

Though their pub is well-known for it’s decadent food offerings, Tom and Katie’s true passion is in ensuring their guests receive an excellent experience.

Katie said: “When you stand back and look out at the pub, and you hear chatting, laughter and plates clatter; that’s when we feel privileged. To win these awards is fantastic, but the fulfilment for us is in being a part of somebody’s special occasion and making their experience the best it can be. Whatever the reason for their visit, our priority lies in putting smiles on people’s faces.”

Tom added: “When someone chooses to come to our pub, we can either make or break their experience, and so we have to treat it with the respect it deserves. The sense of joy we both get from seeing people have a good time in our pub is unparalleled.”