At Penarth Nub News we aim to support our community. We promote shops, businesses, charities, clubs and sports groups.

We have been profiling some of these businesses and organisations as well as the personalities who do their best to help others in a feature called 'Up Close in Penarth'.

Since the team at Barons Court announced the restaurant opening this week, the phone has been ringing non-stop with hungry Penarthians eager to book a table.

Starting yesterday lunchtime, the well-known venue will host customers for a taste of freshly prepared hearty dishes.

For local entrepreneurs Jayne Haywood and Jemma Evans, Barons Court is their first restaurant and bar, and it looks set to be a big success.

"We took on the building in October 2020," Jemma told Nub News.

"There was another project we were working on at the time, so we've just looked at it this space on and off going 'shall we do it?'

"We finally just thought 'right, let's do it'. It was all or nothing, we just had to go for it."

Working with award-winning head chef Chris O'Brien, Jemma and Jayne created a menu of traditional pies, fish and chips, and burgers, with vegan and vegetarian options catered for too.

"Chris' wife has been my hairdresser for 25 years, so I've known him for a long time and was a big fan of his work," said Jemma.

"We absolutely wanted to collaborate with him, and I know he's got lots of creative ideas for specials lined up too."

Barons Court is also a free house, so a wide range of beers and wines have been chosen with customers in mind and to complement the food.

"We'll build and learn based on what our customers say," said Barrie Cook, the restaurant and bar manager.

"Even though it's been a troubled time for all, people want to come out to eat, and enjoy time with friends and family.

"I'm thrilled to be here now, and I'm throwing myself into it."

Barrie began his career working for Jemma's parents and went on to run pubs in Barry.

"We absolutely knew from day one that we wanted Barrie," said Jemma.

"I've known him all my life, so we've got a great working relationship."

Though Jemma grew up in the restaurant industry, she hadn't planned to follow in her parents' footsteps. But it was the historic building that caught her eye.

"It's something that I said that wouldn't be for me, but when we took on this building, we realised we really need to do this. It's a beautiful space.

The building is Grade II listed and according to the British Listed Buildings website possibly dates to the late 15th Century. It is considered the oldest building in the Penarth area.

That character comes through in the design of the new restaurant and bar, which sympathetically blends the high ceilings, stone archways and brickwork with sleek modern finishes.

Since we gave readers a first glimpse of what to expect, Jemma said bookings have flown in.

"We've also had people stop and knock on the door to ask if we're open, which is incredible," she said.

To book your table, ring +44292 0000 1231. Visit Barons Court Facebook page to find out more.