A SUFFOLK eatery has become the newest regional entry in a prestigious gastronomical guide.

Max and Polly Durrant only reopened the doors of the Ufford Crown in April 2011, but already the family-run pub and restaurant has made an impression on judges from the famous Michelin Guide.

The Crown, located just off the A12 in Ufford, near Woodbridge, is the latest entry on the list of 15 recommended pubs in East Anglia for the 2013 edition of the guide for Great Britain and Ireland.

With Mrs Durrant’s brother, Will Hardiman, in charge of the kitchen, the pub offers a regularly changing menu of English dishes with a French twist.

The Crown narrowly missed the deadline for inclusion last year, with judges making their recommendation for the latest edition based on the quality of food and service.

Mrs Durrant said: “It’s a fantastic accolade. Being included in the guide is something pubs and restaurants aspire to, so we’re really chuffed.

“The guide is used by people all over the world who refer to it when they go on their travels.”

The guide describes the Crown as a welcoming pub run by a husband and wife team, offering a wide range of dishes, generous portions and good service.

Judges gave particular approval to the rib of Ketley beef, which can be shared and comes with a “mountain of roast potatoes”, according to Mrs Durrant, who added: “It’s great to be recognised for our food and we’re really lucky to have found some fantastic staff who are an important part of the experience for customers.

“We realise we have to really impress people now!”

Mr Durrant and Mr Hardiman trained in London but both have roots in Suffolk, where they hope to bring even more acclaim from food experts.

The ultimate dream of a Michelin star may be a little way off but the team have an eye on the guide’s “Bib Gourmand” award for restaurants offering good food at moderate prices.

Mrs Durrant concluded: “Will is a fantastic chef. We’re all about hearty British food with a French twist.

“We change the menu every day, with some regular staples.

“Our real show-stopper is the rib of beef – it’s a dish we’ve become known for.

“We’re thrilled to be mentioned in the guide.”