A LOCAL husband and wife team are creating a stir in Richmond with a new restaurant.

Brook and Claire Watson opened Richmond Grill & Brasserie (RG&B) in Trinity Square in the Market Place, Richmond, last weekend, and aim to fill a niche in the market.

After a small launch last weekend the couple received rave reviews from diners enjoying the menu.

Mr Watson said: “Richmond was crying out for a restaurant like RG&B – classic food, locally sourced, perfectly cooked and beautifully presented.

“There are lots of great restaurants in the town, but they’re all very specific, such as Thai, Italian and French.

“We thought it was about time you could go out for a meal in Richmond and enjoy a good, local steak, pork belly, wild halibut or even oysters.

“We’re not pigeon-holing ourselves as fine-dining – although the food is exquisite, the portions are more generous and we’ve tried to make the setting relaxed and friendly.”

The restaurant, which has previously housed a short-lived tapas venue and Italian eatery, has been given a full facelift with statement wallpaper, wood panelling, and banquette seating.

RG&B sources quality ingredients and all dishes are prepared by a top kitchen team, led by head chef, Ross Hadley.

Mr Hadley has more than 25 years’ experience in catering and has worked at many top restaurants around the world, including Michelin Starred establishments, and has also worked with Albert Roux and Gordon Ramsay.

More recently Mr Hadley worked at the Frenchgate Hotel in Richmond.

Mr Watson added: “We are lucky to have such a fantastic chef.

“Ross is already making his mark at the restaurant – we have worked closely together to develop an exceptional menu that caters for every taste. We pride ourselves on offering first class customer care and our friendly staff will ensure your visit to RG&B is perfect.”

The restaurant is also open for Sunday lunch, and will soon offer private dining facilities for parties and business lunches. Children are welcome.

For more information or menus visit www.richmondgrillandbrasserie.co.uk, call 01748-822602, or email info@rgandb.co.uk.