Augustus
Taunton, Somerset
With its glass extension protruding into a quiet courtyard, this relaxed restaurant makes a pleasant setting in which to savour the seasons, especially on sunny days. In the kitchen, Richard Guest offers a similarly bright, breezy take on bistro cooking that's abidingly popular with diners: ‘... the finishing touches and the whole presentation were perfect.’ A few updated stalwarts feature among starters, including a cheese soufflé that’s often mentioned in reports or seared foie gras teamed with Jerusalem artichoke purée, sultanas and pine nuts. Gallic influences can be detected among the mains: fillet of turbot with galette potato, shellfish tomato fondue and grilled leeks, or a satisfying slow-roast duck with celeriac gratin, Anna potato and duck jus. None, however, come heartier than braised short-rib of beef with creamed potatoes, mixed greens and horseradish. There's a broad selection of desserts – chocolate and salted caramel millefeuille with praline, and apple tart tatin with vanilla ice cream among them – or order cheeses from a roving butcher's block. Service hits the right solicitous note, and there’s wide appreciation for the good-value set menu. Reasonably priced wines start at £25.
Dining Information:
No background music, Outdoor dining, Family friendly
3 The Courtyard, St James Street, Taunton, Somerset TA1 1JR
01823 324354
