After 103 days in lockdown, BRAZZ, Taunton’s town centre brasserie in Castle Bow, will reopen on Saturday 4th July. The Castle Hotel will be reopening its 44 bedrooms on Wednesday, 15th July.
In addition, from 4th July, BRAZZ’s takeaway service, GRAB-a-BRAZZ, will also resume operations. And The Castle Hotel’s Events Office will reopen for all functions: conferences, banqueting and weddings.
Kit Chapman and his son, Nick, Chairman of the family firm, issued a joint statement to express their delight.
“After nearly 15 weeks in lockdown, we are thrilled to be welcoming back our customers. We want to lift people’s spirits again. Good food, good service and good cheer lie at the heart of what we do.”
In welcoming a return to business, General Manager, Ronan Hunter, also wanted to reassure visitors that the wellbeing and safety of both clients and staff were paramount.
“Health and safety have been top priorities in our preparations for reopening. Certainly, our customers will have to expect a different experience in the management of our physical spaces.
“For example, we have reduced table numbers in BRAZZ and drinking at the bar will not be allowed. Table service will be the order of the day with one-metre social distancing in place. Throughout the building, we have introduced numerous hand sanitisation stations, and enhanced cleaning protocols are in place.
“Our Housekeeping teams are working in line with the UK Housekeeping Association guidelines, and we have also completed the AA Covid Confident Scheme. Our teams have undergone a rigorous training programme to ensure they are fully prepared to be able to welcome our wonderful guests safely back again.”
Head Chef Liam Finnegan is also looking forward to reopening his kitchen:
“To begin with”, he says, “we shall be offering a slightly reduced menu, but clients can certainly look forward to our specialities and old favourites like Classic Fish Cakes with Slow Cooked Leeks, Chive and Lemon Butter; our Ham Hock Terrine and Toasted Brioche; or our great Fish and Chips, our homemade super Burgers and many other delicious dishes, not least our fabulous desserts.
“To start, Brazz will be open as a 5 day a week operation – so book early to avoid disappointment. Alongside this you can also book The Castle’s famous afternoon tea service from 4th July”.
