Food feedback
Published: 02 April, 2008
The South-West has a long and established tradition of taking pride in its local produce. Home of the Soil Association and instrumental in the growth of the organic food movement, the combination of rich arable land and fruits of the sea gives these counties a distinct head start in the rich pickings from their market gardens.
Taking advantage of a weekend visit to Plymouth, an early morning stop in Exeter took me to Princesshay, recently opened by Land Securities. An excellent example of streetscape shopping, linking the established retail areas of the city with a modern but sympathetically designed development, we wandered through the streets as part of the experience. Although open to the elements in most places, the visitor is rewarded by new tenants to the city including LK Bennett, Reiss and Apple.
As part of the food mix, Chandos Deli, based in Bristol and owned by Iain Keith-Smith, represents the 'indigenous' element for foodservice provision. With eight units, predominantly focused in Bath and Bristol, this independent food and drink retailer promotes the best of South-West produce. From Devon-caught seabass and Devon dabs from the fishmonger, to hams from locally reared pigs and a host of local cheeses, the deli really is a 'foodies' paradise. Integrated into the deli is a small café offer, with a limited menu, but executed superbly.
It comes as no surprise that the brand has recently been voted Sandwich Retailer of Year, with a mouth-watering selection of freshly made baguette offers, but, at 9.30 in the morning, I was limited to a seeded muffin, moist and delicious, and a perfectly made 100 per cent organic latte, totalling £3.95.
It's hugely rewarding to have the opportunity to smell, taste and sample local produce and Chandos Deli executes this with passion and professionalism. Due to the ethos of the company and the sourcing of its product range, it is unlikely that the company will expand rapidly beyond its traditional South-West heartland. This is a good enough reason to visit Princesshay, to enjoy the architecture and to relish the food at Chandos Deli.
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