A NEW super cool kitchen and glowing reports from both the AA and Visit Britain have put Grassington House firmly on the map as a dining destination.

Following a massive investment in January, owner and masterchef John Rudden is delighted with his new state-of-the-art kitchen, which has transformed the working environment for the cuisine team.

“The difference is amazing,” he said. "The kitchen is now cooler than the restaurant."

The specialist cooking equipment uses induction technology to heat up instantly and cool just as quickly with none of the heat build-up generally associated with commercial kitchens.

It also delivers an environmental brownie point in energy saving of up to 50 per cent.

Meanwhile, the diners in the restaurant are clearly giving the output from the kitchen the thumbs-up.

It has recently received a fresh five-star Gold rating from Visit Britain and a glowing new report from the AA.

With Susan Rudden working her magic on beautiful interiors throughout the unspoilt Georgian building, John is free to concentrate on continuing to excel and develop the restaurant, known as No5 from their address 5, The Square, Grassington.

John is an inspirational chef who consistently produces food to an exceptionally high standard which is attracting a loyal following. He also goes out of his way to share the techniques and skills which make his cooking so special, with a regular programme of masterclasses and demonstrations at shows. Despite his success, he has never lost sight of his roots and as such is a good teacher, bringing on staff to flourish under his guidance.

As well as teaching cooking techniques in primary schools in the area, John has kept a connection with Craven College, where he began his formal training, giving his time to the students on a hotel and catering degree course.

He has worked with them on menu planning, balancing of food, seasonality and costing exercises, helping them to learn not only how to be a good cook producing outstanding food, but also how to make a living at it.

The Ruddens also value their staff. Most have been with them since they opened the business and some that have sampled pastures new have soon returned with renewed commitment to John’s inspirational vision of providing the highest quality cuisine in relaxed surroundings.

A Yorkshireman to the core, John’s sense of humour translates across everything that he does, and his keen sense of value means that his customers can enjoy world-class cuisine at prices that are accessible. Look out for the Sunday and Monday night special, for example; a five-course gourmet meal at £39.50 for two.