Hundreds of VIP guests turn out for launch of new-style Shrewsbury restaurant

Momo No Ki, a Japanese noodle bar, was previewed last night at Abbey Foregate and guests said they were impressed.

It is the UK's only Japanese noodle bar outside London and owner Martin Monahan said it was helping to put Shrewsbury on the map.

He said: "Great things are happening in Shrewsbury. A number of people in the town are working hard and really starting to change Shropshire.

"We're so, so proud of Momo No Ki. The noodle bar opens tonight and the idea is that people can simply come in, get a bowl of noodles and enjoy the experience. There's nothing like it anywhere outside London."

The launch of the bar coincided with the launch of a book, which is also called Momo No Ki, by chef Chris Burt.

Mr Burt, who is the Executive Chef for the neighbouring Peach Tree restaurant and is also the Head Chef for Momo No Ki, said he was thrilled.

He said: "We're launching the book and the new restaurant. The past year has been the most incredible journey and I've absolutely loved it.

"We were inspired to open the new restaurant because of we had such a great time at last year's Shrewsbury Food Festival. That changed the game for a lot of people in Shropshire because it showed what could be achieved.

"We're really, really excited that Momo No Ki is opening and people can get an authentic taste of Japanese food right here in Shropshire."

Mr Burt's book has been reviewed by Peter Kaminsky an American TV star and author.

He heaped praise on the title and described it as being: 'fusion without confusion, creative but not baffling, modern but modest. Pretty much does it all!'

Mr Burt added: "To be reviewed by the New York Times – and particularly by one of the most important food critics in the world – is incredible. We're delighted that the book is out and the restaurant is open."