THROUGH painstaking renovation of a virtually derelict Cotswold building, Russell's in Broadway has blossomed into an exceptional restaurant with an award-winning reputation.
Named after famous furniture designer Gordon Russell, the establishment also now boasts seven relaxing, luxurious bedrooms - an addition which came about through demand rather than design.
It has already clinched the Good Hotel Guide Csar for Newcomer of The Year and Hardens Guide Restaurant Remy Regional Award for 2006.
Opened by business partners Barry Hancox and Andrew Riley in November 2004, the 16th century honey-coloured stone building in the High Street was just a shell until the pair took it under their wing.
As former managers at the town's Lygon Arms and Broadway Hotel with 50 years experience between them, they spent four months renovating the modern, airy restaurant, which seats 60.
Al fresco dining was also catered for in the peaceful courtyard and front patio.
The idea of providing accommodation came later.
"We bought the building and it was only then that we discovered we had the four rooms upstairs," he said.
"They were a bit of an afterthought really but it turned out that they were very popular, so we bought the adjacent property and now have seven rooms with a private dining room for 12."
Naming the restaurant proved difficult but Russell's, in the end, was the obvious choice with celebrated furniture designer Gordon Russell once using the building as his headquarters.
"We thought of loads of clever names but as everyone knew it as Russell's, after the designer, it made sense to keep it that way.
"We also tried to follow his inventive style of dcor - contemporary but keeping the exposed wood and natural Cotswold features."
Serving modern British food, from breakfast through lunch to dinner, using only the finest ingredients, the emphasis at Russell's is on local and seasonal produce, beautifully cooked and served with care.
Whether you want a light lunch or a very special weekend away, it has a unique blend of style, exceptional quality and relaxation.
Head Chef, Matthew Laughton, is on hand to make the most of the Cotswolds' rural farming traditions while combining English flavours and Mediterranean influences.
The individually designed bedrooms decorated with traditional arts and crafts comprise a suite, doubles and twin rooms - all with en-suite bathrooms, luxury bed linen and air conditioning.
Bathrooms use cool natural stone tiles and offer both huge baths and shower cubicles."
Flat screen televisions, broadband internet access and original architectural features combine to create a supremely comfortable experience. A full English breakfast is included.
For opening hours and tariffs, call 01386 853555 or email info@russellsofbroadway.co.uk for more details.
Alternatively, visit http://www.russellsofbroadway.com.
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