A steakhouse on the outskirts of Ipswich has become the highest rated place to eat in the town. 

16 Steakhouse, formerly Greshams and attached to Venue 16, opened during lockdown when director, Jamie Lee Smith, couldn't continue his 25-year catering business due to Covid restrictions.

Mr Smith saw his competitors and decided to "take them on". As lockdown progressed and restrictions lifted, he realised he couldn't do it alone and brought on a team to support Venue16 - the main venue.

(Image: 16 Steakhouse)

Taking on a huge transformation, Mr Smith said: "The hardest part is taking on a place with a mixed reputation.

"You have to bring in new clientele and I was lucky I had a following from my outside catering business, people I catered for at their weddings or events."

"They supported me."

16 Steakhouse offers an upfront price for the meal, side salad and sauce, a gimmick Mr Smith says "goes down really well". 

Meals at the top rated restaurant are offered at an upfront price, with the restaurant valuing 'customer experience' over profit. (Image: 16 Steakhouse) Self-proclaimed as "one of the most experienced food and beverage guys in the area", Mr Smith says he would sound brash saying it isn't hard having the pressure of his name hanging above the door.

Reflecting on why they've rated so highly, Mr Smith said: "We don't always get it right, we're in the hospitality trade.

"My policy is, if we can get it right 98% of the time then we will be doing a good job."

"The customers are important, we care, we make it personal and we remember our regulars to make everyone feel welcome."