This glass-fronted bistro is hidden within an intimate courtyard in Taunton’s town centre, so might be missed were it not for its stellar reputation.

Augustus enjoys a loyal following of customers who frequent it for its high-calibre cooking and comfortable decor.

For more than a decade, owners Richard Guest and Cedric Chirrosel have proved that the hallmarks of a consistently good restaurant are top-notch front-of-house service and quality ingredients.

The pair are dedicated supporters of other local indies and most of what ends up on the plate is sourced nearby. Fresh fruit and veg come from greengrocer Granny Smiths and Pitney Farm, salads from Capland Acre, Brixham-caught fish from Phil Bowditch and meat from Riverside Butchers.

Richard’s cooking style leans towards classic French cuisine while celebrating seasonal British produce. Popular menu items include seared Brixham scallops with XO butter and kimchi, and sirloin steak with braised red peppers, watercress and shallot salad, tarragon butter and french fries. Smarter dishes include fillet of turbot with galette potato, grilled asparagus, globe artichoke heart and bouillabaisse sauce.

Trencherman’s tip

Observer critic Jay Rayner described Augustus as ‘a classy bistro that will look after you and make the world feel just that little bit betterʼ.