The prestigious award is reserved for restaurants demonstrating exceptional culinary excellence
Knutsford fine dining restaurant LI~LY by Aiden Byrne has announced that it has been awarded three AA Rosettes for 2026; a prestigious accolade from The AA recognising outstanding restaurants that achieve standards demanding national recognition well beyond their local area.
According to the AA’s criteria, these few recognised venues show:
- The selection and sympathetic treatment of the highest quality ingredients
- Consistently excellent timing, seasoning and judgement of flavour combinations
- Technical precision and creativity across the menu
- Supporting elements such as intuitive service and a well-chosen wine list
This award follows from LI~LY’s recent recognition in the MICHELIN Guide for Great Britain & Ireland 2025, further cementing its reputation as one of the region’s most exciting fine dining destinations.
Since first opening in November 2024, the restaurant quickly became a highly established spot in Cheshire and beyond. Housed within a beautifully restored 400-year-old building on King Street in Knutsford, the restaurant offers refined five- and nine-course tasting menus that evolve and flow naturally with the seasons.
Simon Numphud, Managing Director at AA Media commented – “Aiden Byrne delivers sensitive flavour combinations and a real sense of fun and enjoyment. Guests have the confidence knowing that Aiden is leading the kitchen, personally every day. Front of house, a small family led team, deliver knowledgeable service and the warmest of hospitality.”
Aiden Byrne, Chef Patron of LI~LY, commented: “To receive Three AA Rosettes is a phenomenal achievement for our whole team. It’s a recognition that speaks to consistency, precision, and the complete guest experience, from the ingredients we carefully source to the service and wine that frame every dish.
Coming so soon after being recognised by The MICHELIN Guide, it feels like a truly special moment in LI~LY’s journey. We set out to create something that could stand confidently on a national stage while remaining rooted in Knutsford and the Northwest. I’m incredibly proud of our team, their dedication, attention to detail and passion is what makes accolades like this possible.”
LI~LY, 48 King St, Knutsford WA16 6DT
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