Sue Beswick visits the refubished Waterwise in Totnes which opened a decade ago
It’s a special year and a big anniversary this year for the popular couple Matt and Delphine Buzzo who own and run the hugely popular Waterside Bistro in Totnes. 2015 marks a successful decade in business for the enterprising couple and to celebrate this important milestone the restaurant has recently undergone a subtle décor and lighting makeover. The already warm and inviting atmosphere has been enhanced by lighting that can be changed according to the time of day and mood of the event or dining experience. A new lower height oak bar and a dedicated, coffee serving area both help to improve customer welcome and service. A feature chilled cabinet displays tempting new house “sweet treats” such as frangipane tarts and Bramley apple cake alongside “old favourites” of scones, carrot cake and lemon polenta cake. Matt, as the Waterside’s owner and head chef, has taken the opportunity to expand his kitchen by 50% to enable his team to manage and more easily cater for the growing demand for the Bistro’s delicious simple, stylish and superb cuisine. The wine cellar has also been enlarged to house the extensive range of excellent wines. Waterside has one of the best waterside spots (hence the name) in the South Devon town of Totnes and is a great place to meet and eat alongside the beautiful River Dart. Whever you visit, come rain or shine, you will see that the inviting riverside terrace with its canopied area (pictured left) really does act as a magnet for all ages, locals, shoppers and visitors to Totnes. In fact 80 of the 160 seats outside are now covered, whilst inside there is seating for a further 60 people. Ten years on, Matt and Delphine are delighted to be going forward this Summer with the new look Waterside, supported by a talented and dedicated team who share their focus on running a fantastic bistro and building on a hard-won reputation for delivering great food and service. But you don’t have to just take my word for it - in 2013, the Waterside Bistro won both the Best Bistro in Devon Award from Food & Drink Devon and a prestigious GOLD in the Taste of the West Awards. Cooking with local produce is a top priority and Matt himself is now supplying many of the more unusual ingredients from his own kitchen garden.
