Pictured above, chef patron 'Alfonso Yufera-Ruiz'

This month saw the opening of Casa Ruiz in Shropshire, Authentic Spanish Restaurant run by Birmingham's Michelin starred Maitre D'  'Alfonso Yufera-Ruiz'

Born and trained in Spain, chef patron Alfonso has spent 15 years gaining experience in some of the UK's and Spain's best restaurants, to ready himself for opening his own venture, in Bridgnorth, Shropshire.

Alfonso's passions are "quality ingredients, sourced locally where possible, and cooked with care, passion, and flavour". It is clear from talking to Alfonso that his passions run deep, with much of his pleasures gained from sharing them with his customers through his food. Though only open since early May, Casa Ruiz (House of Ruiz) has proven very popular with those in the know in the area, with many even travelling to see him from his old routes, and adopted home of Birmingham.

"We looked at many places for our new venture, both in Birmingham, and around Shropshire, but we settled in Bridgnorth as it is not only friendly and welcoming, but there is a real foodie buzz in the town, with many of the influential diners in Birmingham keeping their eye on new developments in the town," said Alfonso.

Alfonso continued "The site we found was previously 'Bella Roma' located on the High Street, just above the Bridgnorth Deli, and almost next to Beaman's Butchers, so we are in good company. Most of our meats are soured locally, with free range eggs from the town, and meats from local butchers. I choose my fish in Birmingham at the market, and also use specialist suppliers for my authentic Spanish ingredients from my old contacts at Simpsons, alongside family who often visit and bring some of our secret Spanish spices."

Alfonso is joined by his partner Emma Lisk, whom he worked with at Simpsons, and has been with ever since. "We were so excited when the opportunity came our way to open in Bridgnorth as I have been coming here for years. Being from Newport myself, we often used to visit for the day. Everyone has been so welcoming to us," said Alfonso.

Concluding, Emma Added "Many people have admired us for opening a new restaurant in the current economic climate, but as soon as they see the menu, and the prices from as little as £3.00 for an authentic tapas dish, they were delighted.  They can leave satisfied for as little as £18, including a glass of good Spanish wine, there really is no comparison"

Casa Ruiz is open daily serving authentic tapas from £3.00 per dish and can be found at 45 High Street, Bridgnorth.

News article supplied by dinewithus.co.uk - the regions leading dining guide.