Fuchsia Restaurant, on the balcony, Market Square, Newton Abbot

I remember the Fuchsia Restaurant when it was at the indoor bowling centre and served a mean ham, egg and chips!  Free parking and you could watch the gee gees go by on race days.  For some years now, they've nestled above the market and I read in the MDA recently that a serving soldier requested a batch of their scones be sent to him in Afghanistan.  Scones that inspire such loyalty in our troops need investigating, and today a friend and I climbed the stairs from the market square to do just that!

Walking in, the Fuchsia struck me as clean, quiet and orderly.  All the tables were neatly laid with burgundy-coloured cloths and some were obviously set for lunch.  It was a little disconcerting to see that most of the tables were reserved, but the staff were very friendly and did point out where we could sit.  They also pointed out the special deals available and so it was that we settled down to enjoy a cheese scone and coffee for £1.95.  Can't go wrong.  Even lattes were only £1.65 which is as reasonably priced as I've seen anywhere.

The scones were very tasty - cheese and black pepper - served with two pats of butter.  I can see why they would be a tonic for the troops.  Could they bring about world peace, I wonder, if we were to offer them to our enemies? 

We sat long over the scones and coffee, putting our individual worlds to rights.  Just before 12, the cafe started to fill up.  We saw why all the tables were reserved.  Fuchsia obviously has a fan club who come every Wednesday (maybe every day!) for lunch.  And that to me is the best recommendation of all, regular customers who come back and back.  The Christmas Menu was on display (yes, really) and I would advise you to book now - I have a feeling that the Fuchsia will be busy.