BRAZZ

BRAZZ was first conceived a little over a decade ago, evolving the classic concept of the French brasserie; out went the gingham tablecloths and candles in wine bottles, in came cool contemporary decor and food that speaks for itself. It was an instant hit, and has since turned into a local institution.

The key to BRAZZ's success is its informality and no-nonsense style, a philosophy born from the original brasserie restaurants. They were breweries, mainly family run, in the villages and towns of eastern France. Beer was brewed out back and served front of house and, as restaurants became ever more popular, food began to be served as well. They were about snappy service and wholesome, nourishing meals rather than anything elaborate: precisely the method adopted at BRAZZ.

The emphasis is very much on flexibility - this elegantly decorated restaurant can be anything the customer wants it to be, from a place to refuel with a fortifying breakfast, to somewhere to drop in for mid-morning coffee and pastries, or perhaps a chilled beer on a hot day. Whatever the occasion for your visit, the food available to you will be excellent. BRAZZ favourites such as Blackdown bangers - just one of the many locally-sourced products included on the menu - and the renowned burgers are served both at lunchtime and in the evening, as well as daily changing menus featuring other brasserie classics such as mussels and fish cakes. Refreshments are plentiful - the bar's local ales sit side by side with the finest European lagers, while a thoughtfully-chosen wine list offers plenty of options at reasonable prices, by the glass and the bottle.

Above all, BRAZZ buzzes. There is a tremendous atmosphere; a feeling of theatre is created by the twinkling stars in the domed ceiling, and a giant brilliant blue fish tank provides an interesting backdrop to your dining experience, as does the monthly live jazz on a Sunday lunchtime. BRAZZ is bright, breezy and a pleasure to eat in, and there's not a gingham tablecloth in sight.