At the Royal Garden Cafe are, back from left, Jacob Goodenough, Charlie Hall, Stephen Shakeshaft, Ned George, Shaun Weller and Karl Palmer; front, Lucy Keyzor and manager Bridget Wells.
THERE is now a royal touch to the cafe at Ventnor Botanic Garden.
Ventnor’s prestigious Royal Hotel has taken over the catering franchise at the garden and the newly refurbished Royal Garden Cafe will now feature an inventive menu using locally-sourced and seasonal produce.
All of the food is made from scratch and includes local chicken, fish and eggs.
Manager, Bridget Wells, said: "It is important we showcase our wonderful Island food.
"We have such an amazing climate and a vast array of tasty produce including award-winning cheeses, early asparagus and sensational tomatoes."
The Royal Hotel has secured two rosettes over 14 consecutive years and managing director, William Bailey, said he was convinced the Royal Garden Cafe would become a year-round eating destination.
He said: "The botanic garden is an amazing location. We want to work hand in hand with the IW Council to add value to this attraction with a cafe offering that it second to none.
"I have a great team who are passionate about food and our garden isle. This is an incredible opportunity.
"The contract runs for ten years and is a good example of a council awarding a contract to an entrepreneurial medium-sized business," he said.
There are plans to introduce a weekend evening service next year.
Reporter: richardw@iwcpmail.co.uk