The Box Tree in Ilkley has been awarded ‘Best Fine Dining Experience’ at the prestigious Oliver Awards 2025, held at New Dock Hall in Leeds on Monday, 10 March.
Now in its 16th year, the Oliver Awards recognise the finest talent within the hospitality sector across Yorkshire, and this award is a significant milestone for The Box Tree’s culinary journey.
The award comes just over a year since Brayden Davies joined the team as Head Chef, bringing his unique culinary vision and expertise. Inspired by his Australian roots, Brayden’s dishes blend bold flavours from his homeland with a deep appreciation for Yorkshire’s seasonal produce, offering an innovative yet refined dining experience.
In addition to Brayden’s culinary leadership, Tom Wardle joined The Box Tree later in 2024 as Restaurant Manager, further enhancing the overall guest experience with his wealth of experience and commitment to exceptional service.
Together, Brayden and Tom have helped redefine fine dining at The Box Tree, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers.
Brayden Davies, Head Chef, said:
“I am incredibly honoured to have received this recognition. The team at The Box Tree has worked tirelessly to bring a fresh and exciting approach to dining, blending my love for Australian flavours with the amazing produce we have here in Yorkshire. This award is not just a reflection of my vision but also shows the passion and dedication of the entire team. I’m excited to continue pushing boundaries and creating memorable experiences for our guests.”
Chris Stapleton, General Manager, said:
“We are absolutely thrilled to receive this prestigious award. It is a reflection of the hard work and passion of everyone at The Box Tree, from the kitchen to the front of house. We’re extremely proud of Brayden’s vision and the excellence that Tom has brought to the service side of things. This achievement only motivates us to continue delivering exceptional dining experiences and creating lasting memories for our guests. We look forward to an exciting year ahead and to welcoming more guests to experience what The Box Tree has to offer.”