Six months after opening its doors, Kingsbridge restaurant Verse is looking to build on a strong start as its owners plan further events, winter offerings and investment back into the business.

Head chef and owner Paul Hegley said the restaurant had been a “whirlwind” since launching in February, with the business finding its feet while he continues to balance his role at Gara Rock.

One of the biggest successes has been the introduction of Wednesday evenings, with the restaurant’s rotisserie and wine nights proving popular.

The midweek offering was deliberately designed to make Verse more accessible, rather than positioning it solely as a destination for special occasions.

“We wanted to do a menu that was at a price point that, if you're going out midweek, it doesn't have to be always associated with a special occasion – you can just drop in and have something to eat,” he said.

The restaurant combines high-quality produce and fine-dining techniques with a more relaxed setting, something Mr Hegley believes has helped it establish a place in the town.

“When people come here they feel welcome,” he said. “It's a bit more of an experience as opposed to being a traditional fine dining restaurant.”

That experience has already attracted diners celebrating engagements and anniversaries, while the restaurant’s chef’s counter has also proved popular.

Mr Hegley said the ambition now was to build on the momentum Verse has established.

Behind the scenes, retaining staff has been a particular source of pride.

Every member of the original team, apart from one, remains with the business, with additional staff employed as it has grown.

“I think that's kind of my biggest highlight,” Mr Hegley said. “Training and developing, giving people this and wanting this to be a career for people.”

The restaurant has also received strong online reviews, with Mr Hegley saying the aim is eventually for Verse to gain national recognition.

That ambition has already taken a significant step forward, with Verse having just received a Michelin listing.

“I want this to be on the map nationally as a restaurant that people associate with good food and good service and great hospitality ethos,” he said.

Looking ahead, Verse is considering Sunday “vinyl sessions” during the winter, combining music, guest chefs and a Sunday roast, while wine events and other collaborations are also planned.

A Mediterranean wine evening is due to take place in September, with five wines paired with five snacks, while a ticketed New Year's Eve event is also planned.

The restaurant's hamper business is another area the team hopes to develop, with plans to work with local producers and businesses to create a “taste of Devon”.

Mr Hegley said the first year was less about maximising profits and more about establishing the business.

“It was always, always, always going to be about doing a good job and establishing ourselves and making sure we're getting the product right,” he said. “I feel the end result will come given the product.”

For Mr Hegley, the past six months have ultimately been about turning an idea into something tangible.

“Hard work but rewarding,” he said. “You kind of put yourself on the line to do things a certain way and it's really rewarding when people recognise it.”