Russell Watson delights diners at a glamorous black tie occasion in Chester.

It was an occasion that oozed glamour: the ‘People’s Tenor’ Russell Watson singing operatic arias at one of Cheshire’s glitziest venues while an elegantly attired crowd dined on fine food and wines.

Opera Grill, on Pepper Street, in Chester, pulled out all the stops to make it an occasion to remember. Guests were greeted with champagne and cocktails while being serenaded by ‘String Infusion’ - musicians who looked as beautiful as they sounded.

The world-renowned tenor, who now lives in Wilmslow, was undoubtedly the star attraction but there were many murmurs of appreciation for the menu, created by Individual Restaurants’ chefs. The feast began with dressed Isle of Man crab, followed by Las Pampas Aberdeen Angus corn-fed sirloin steak and then chocolate delice with honeycomb and lime sorbet.

Russell, who has sung for royalty, Pope John Paul 11 and two US presidents received a rapturous welcome. His songs included operatic favourites and standards from the American songbook.

Individual Restaurants - who own Piccolino, The Restaurant Bar & Grill, Gino D’Acampo My Restaurants and Bank - regularly present music at Opera Grill. Russell’s night has whetted the appetite for more combinations of food and music.