Chester's independent eateries were recently thrust to the fore on a fantastic tour of the local culinary scene.

Dabba, Huxley's, The Brewery Tap, Greenhouse and many more, were given the chance to showcase their prowess on a tour led by Stephanie Bath, of Chester on a Plate food tours.

During the half-day food tour, we walked the Roman walls and heard about the city's haunted past - all whilst trying unique and delicious local food.

The first stop of the tour was Dabba, a South Indian restaurant on Commonhall Street (Nub News)

Kicking off at 11:30am on Commonhall Street, we were welcomed by Dabba's owners, Stephen and Rekha, who invited us inside for an authentic South Indian brunch.

Sipping on masala chai, Rekha shared her family's traditions and routines which have influenced the menu.

The co-owner spoke with remarkable passion and enthusiasm, delivering a fascinating mini-lecture on the history of the cuisine.

We were served platters of steamed rice and lentil cakes (idli), deep fried savouries (punugulu) and lentil pancakes (Nub News)

The food was delightful and varied; we were served platters of steamed rice and lentil cakes (idli), deep fried savouries (punugulu) and lentil pancakes (dosa) - all served with a range of chutneys and a light broth for dipping.

Next up, we headed along the city walls to the well-loved Huxley's, where there was an option for a pint of porter, pale ale or an ice cream.

We drank our beer as we continued our walk along the walls, with Stephanie revealing yet more facts about Chester's rich history. ​​

The second stop was Huxley's, Huxleys, where there was an option for a pint of porter, pale ale or an ice cream (Nub News)

Shortly after we stopped in the Roman Gardens for yet more Chester trivia, learning about Roman bathing habits and taking in the beautiful cherry blossom.

After working up an appetite, we stopped by the infamous Brewery Tap - where we were met with its beautifully historic interior, featuring an extensive selection of local beers.

On the menu was freshly made beef pie, which paired wonderfully with a glass of house red wine or one of the pub's many beer offerings.

We were faced with its beautiful and historic interior of The Brewery Tap (Nub News)

Moving up towards Rufus Court, our host divulged even more fascinating facts about the cathedral and its vast influence on the city.

Before long we were greeted by more fantastic wine at Greenhouse, where we enjoyed a varied tapas dish of fried feta and king prawns in the beautiful open-plan restaurant.

The experience was flawless - with smiling faces and warm service throughout.

We got to sample some freshly made beef pie with beer or wine (Nub News)

For dessert we moved to the market, where an array of freshly made cheesecakes awaited us at Pastry Pedaleur - with another friendly greeting by bakery founder, Stephanie Peters.

Made specially for the tour, she had crafted cheshire cheesecakes with a raspberry topping.

Whilst we tucked in, the founder shared the story behind the food and her widely successful business.

For dessert we tried some freshly-made cheesecake at Pastry Pedaleur (Nub News)

Just when we thought we couldn't manage another bite, Steven Cartridge, from Chester Market's fishmongers, pulled us in to try some fresh smoked salmon.

Steven's friendly demeanour, coupled with the fantastic quality of the fish, made for a wonderful and satisfying end to the tour.

Or so we thought.

Moving over to Watergate Street, we sampled some of Providence Gin's famous local brews.

Inside the quirky bar we discovered the plague's influence on the building's legacy, owing to the famous "God's Providence is Mine Inheritance" on its facade.

At Greenhouse we enjoyed a tapas dish of fried feta and king prawns (Nub News)

The knowledgeable staff inside shared extensive insights and tales, creating a wonderful overview of the place before presenting us with three gin options and large cheese boards.

It served as a great way to close off the day - with a great selection of local gins including fruit cake, lemon and Providence's own pink gin.

In summary, Stephanie is simply brilliant at what she does.

Every transition was seamless and you can the efforts taken to truly get to know each business owner and member of staff- ensuring the food tour is just as much about the people behind the food as it is about tasting it.

There were three gin options and sharing cheese boards (Nub News)

Managing a group of twelve people on one tour is no easy feat, but Stephanie did so with apparent ease.

Chester on a Plate food tours are perfect for anyone wanting to discover more of Chester's bustling food and drink scene - whether you're a long-time local or someone just visiting the area.

To find out more about Stephanie's tours, click here.