SEAFOOD fans have been salivating with excitement ever since the Echo first revealed that Rick Stein was planning to take over Cafe Shore in Sandbanks.

But it seems to be local businesses that have been hyping the place up as opposed to Rick's in-house PR team.

Rumours that 17,000 people tried to book a table on the opening night were quickly scotched by his spokeswoman.

She said: "We are humbled and very flattered that people are so keen to come and visit the restaurant - we have had bookings as far ahead as September next year and we are fully booked on our opening night - but those figures have definitely been exaggerated."

But does the self-titled Rick Stein restaurant which officially opens its doors tonight after several soft launches live up the hype?

Husband and wife PR team Jackie Phillipson and Richard Blunderfield invited me to join them for what was described as an informal lunch as part of the new staff's training programme on Wednesday.

When it comes to location and style, this place certainly gets the full five stars. Perched on the waterfront with panoramic views across Poole harbour, it has been transformed by Rick’s ex-wife Jill who is an interior designer. It looks lighter, brighter and bigger. The style is coastal chic with crisp white napkins and tablecloths, large oil paintings and finishing touches such as wall wreaths made out of mussel shells.

There is an open kitchen on the main floor overseen by Rick's middle son, Jack Stein. The food certainly looked impressive but as you would expect it's not cheap.

The menu includes classics such as Dover sole meunière, turbot hollandaise and fruits de mer with a choice of hot and cold starters.

For starters I had the seared scallops with Serrano ham (£10.95). The scallops were fresh, fleshy and tender, the delicate flavour enhanced by a sherry vinegar dressing.

For mains I opted for one of the seafood restaurant classics, lobster thermidor which is probably the best I've tasted in terms of quality and flavour. It was lighter and more fragrant, but at £44.50 I think it should have included at least a couple of side orders. Buttered spinach and hand cut chips are £3.50 each.

If you’re not a fish fan there is a selection of Rick’s favourite meat dishes such as lamb cutlets and the 10oz steak at £19. There is also a small selection of desserts including chocolate pave and bread and butter pudding.

Although it is pricey, the food is excellent quality, beautifully presented and perfect for a special occasion.

I'm told that the restaurant is planning to offer a more casual lunch time menu with dishes such as a crab salad and moules frites. Definitely worth a visit.