The AHA NSW Awards for Excellence are recognised as the most prestigious awards program in the hospitality industry. The awards honour the achievement of excellence in NSW hotels across a variety of segments, including accommodation, dining, entertainment, marketing, social media, community service and talented employees.

The General Division Awards are open to all “pub-style” hotel members of the Australian Hotels Association NSW who are current members and meet the nomination criteria as detailed in the nomination book.

The King’s Table is one of four Bathurst venues nominated as a finalist in the awards, with Jack Duggans, The Oxford Hotel and Webb and Co Bar also named as finalists in various categories.

Head chef Stuart Peel said the restaurant had been nominated for Best Steak and Best Casual Dining (Western).

He said it was the third time the restaurant had been nominated for an AHA Award, with The King’s Table winning the Best Casual Dining (Country) last year.

Mr Peel said he was delighted to again make the finalist list in the titles.

“We never know when the judges are coming, it’s all secret,” he said. “We know you are judged on three rounds, but they can come by themselves or in a group of three.”

Mr Peel said the secret to his success was consistency. 

“We aim to serve the best meal every single time,” he said.

Leading up to the awards ceremony next Monday in Sydney, Mr Peel said he was hoping for another win, but acknowledged the competition was tough. 

“There are a lot of really good places out there,” he said.

The winners will be announced at a gala ceremony in Sydney next Monday night.