Superstar chef Michael Caines was born and bred in Exeter, so it was natural that he should begin his latest empire-building venture here. The ABode group of boutique hotels stems from his partnership with the current owner of Gidleigh Park, Andrew Brownsword (AB, geddit?), and it's going nationwide: there are already branches in Glasgow, Canterbury and Manchester, with more in the pipeline.
The re-branded Royal Clarence, just opposite Exeter's magnificent twelfth-century Gothic cathedral is much as before, although the whole package now includes a relaxed Café Bar and Well House Tavern, as well as MC's eponymous and discreetly classical restaurant.
The newly appointed Executive Chef at ABode Exeter, Craig Dunn and his team delight in ensuring fabulous food and attention to detail, and menus show mentor Michael Caines' deep affection for West Country produce.
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