Exhibit 23(a) INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement No. 033-866084 of Ridgewood Hotels, Inc. on Form S-8 of our report dated August 13, 2002 appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K of Ridgewood Hotels, Inc. for the year ended March 31, 2003. Deloitte & Touche LLP Atlanta, Georgia July 15, 2003