EXETER’S NEWEST RESTAURANT OFFERS FRESH APPROACH TO BEST OF THE WEST

11.07.2007

WHILE most of us are still tucked up in our beds, chef Richard Valder’s working day is often already well under way.

Richard and his wife Angela are the proprietors of @Angela’s Restaurant in New Bridge Street in the heart of Exeter. Since opening in April @Angela’s is fast building a reputation among the city’s food enthusiasts.

Such is Richard’s commitment to offering the best and freshest local food available, four times a week he sets off at the crack of dawn to ensure he gets the pick of the catch landed at Brixham so it can appear on his menu the same evening. Once back in the kitchen, Richard starts on the variety of home-baked breads that accompany every meal.

 “There’s nothing like fish and shellfish that you can taste has come straight off the boat,” Richard says.

 “You get the buyers down from the best restaurants in London but, by the time they’ve packed it and got it there, mine will always be a day fresher.”

The emphasis on quality and freshness does not stop with the fish. All meat offered is sourced from Devon farmers and, whenever possible, garnished with Westcountry-grown seasonal vegetables, while locally produced cheeses and ice cream provide a perfect end to the meal.

Such is the business’s commitment to the local economy and environment they also use a range of eco-friendly cleaning products and energy-efficient appliances supplied by an Exeter-based company.

The Valders both have over 20 years experience in the catering business and always dreamed of opening their own restaurant.

Plymouth-born Richard trained under Michelin-star chef Jacques Marchal at his prestigious Chez Nous restaurant in the city and honed his skills in France, while until recently Angela worked for Totnes-based Dairy Crest.

With Exeter’s attempts to turn itself into the gourmet capital of the region having suffered from a number of high-profile losses in recent months, @Angela’s Restaurant ‘s initial success lies not just in the quality of the food but the overall experience on offer.

Richard and Angela have deliberately kept the restaurant’s capacity to 20 places so that customers feel they have the space to unwind, relax and enjoy the comfortable and pristine surroundings.

With a wine list that caterers for every wallet, from those with something to celebrate to the connoisseur, the husband and wife team are always happy to explain the menu or simply have a chat, creating an informal and welcoming atmosphere.

 “We’re like a village restaurant in the middle of a big city,” Richard adds.

 “We understand people sometimes feel a little bit nervous when they try somewhere new.

 “But after that first 15 minutes, once our customers have had the time to have a drink and a few olives they understand we’re not the sort of restaurant that wants people in and out as quickly as possible. We want them to thoroughly enjoy the whole experience.”

Despite @Angela’s commitment to freshness, quality and ambience, you won’t have to break the bank to enjoy a meal here.

Starters such as Pan Fried Scallops with Roasted Sweet Potato & Balsamic Dressing or Crayfish and Avocado Cocktail range from £5.50 to £7.50, while mouth-watering main courses such as Fresh Fillets of John Dory with White Wine Butter Sauce or Best End of Mid Devon Lamb with Tomato & Sage Crust served on seared Spinach will only set you back between £10.50 and £16.95.

You can then round things off with a superb range of home-made of puddings such as Dark & White Chocolate Cheesecake with coffee bean sauce.

The restaurant’s Saturday lunchtime menu is also outstanding value, with two courses for just £10 or three for £12.50.

@Angela’s Restaurant, 38 New Bridge Street, Exeter, EX4 3AH. www.angelasrestaurant.co.uk.