Past and present staff, good customers and friends of the owners of a Deal restaurant enjoyed top-notch food and hospitality to celebrate its 10th anniversary.

Jim and Kerrie Cleaver, of the 81 Beach Street eaterie, held the bash on Thursday, giving them chance to reflect on a decade of business.

Mr Cleaver said: “At the time, 10 years ago, we thought Deal was starting to have an edge a bit. It needed to have a good, regular neighbourhood restaurant.

“I wanted to eat really good quality food but I wanted to eat it in an informal atmosphere.”

“I wanted to eat really good quality food but I wanted to eat it in an informal atmosphere” - 81 Beach Street owner Jim Cleaver

Jim, who trained in a three Michelin Star restaurant, said formality and good food were synonymous. But then gastro pubs started to open up, so he decided food served in any restaurant of his would have to be done with the minimum of fuss.

“In 10 years, we are still doing what we have always done.”

The business partners have worked with three great managers since opening, especially existing manager Charlotte Hobgen who is a shareholder, and head chef Mark McEachran. The pair run the restaurant now while Mr Cleaver takes a back seat.

So Thursday’s party was about saying thank you to everyone who has contributed to its success, staff, friends and customers.

Visit: www.81beachstreet.co.uk