A NEW Asian restaurant in Headington run by the Randolph's former head chef is celebrating a top hygiene rating following a surprise inspection last week.

ABC Restaurant, which opened in October, has been created by Ram Jalasutram, who also acts as executive chef.

The 39-year-old has brought with him a wealth of experience to the venture, with previous head chef roles at the Dorchester Hotel in London and the prestigious Gleneagles Hotel in Scotland.

Most recently Oxford diners might have tried his dishes at the Randolph, and he has worked with famous chefs including Raymond Blanc and Gordon Ramsay throughout his career.

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Mr Jalasutram's concept for the new London Road restaurant was to combine Asian and British dishes, with the ABC standing for Asian British Cuisine.

He said: "I was coming up to 40 fast and I decided it was time to express myself."

The business owner said he has Indian,Thai and British meals on the menu and that one of the most popular aspects was having live barbecue at the table.

He explained: "It is all about creating a dining experience."

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The restaurant's website adds: “A memorable dining experience is not only about the food and wine.

“It is an emotional experience – every little detail matters. A great meal comes with great service, atmosphere and of course the company.”

Mr Jalasutram said part of making the experience memorable, and making sure guests want to return, was achieving a top hygiene rating.

He said: "Nowadays it is something customers pay attention to and knowing that standards for cleanliness and food hygiene are high is really important.

"Getting five stars is a positive thing for staff and it means people can trust what we are doing here."

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There have been a slew of glowing reviews on website TripAdvisor since ABC Restaurant opened four months ago.

A recent customer said: “Wow. The food was very sumptuous and mouthwatering. I would recommend the barbecue kebabs which is grilled on your table itself, my friends and myself were very impressed by it.This is the best authentic restaurant l ever experienced in my lifetime.”

Another happy diner wrote: “Great and interesting food, loved the starters grilled at the table. Excellent service- warm, friendly and knowledgeable. We will return.”

Mr Jalasutram said there are plans to create two more restaurants based on the same concept – one in London and the other in central Oxford. Visit abcrestaurants.co.uk.