A TURKISH restaurant will be opening in Mersey Street in around a fortnight.

Husband and wife team Gultekin and Nicky Ugurbascicek are launching Istanbul Grill with the aim of bringing authentic Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine to Warrington.

It is thought to be the only charcoal barbecue Turkish restaurant in the town centre.

Gultekin, who is originally from Abana in the south of Turkey, said: The guests will be able to watch the food being cooked from the glazed window open kitchen in the restaurant.

"All the food will be prepared with fresh ingredients and the menu will include a variety of dishes, from tender spring lamb and succulent chicken to fresh seafood and delicious vegetarian options too. All The food will be cooked to order on the restaurant's signature 2.5m charcoal grill."

The restaurant – in the Mersey Street unit that was formerly Vatikka Indian and Portofino's Italian – will also see the creation of around five jobs with the prospect of more jobs when the upper floor is opened too.

Gultekin added: "The restaurant will also be looking to offer apprenticeship opportunities for young people interested to gain experience in the hospitality industry.

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"Warrington is a vibrant town with a city vibe and by far excels what is going on in neighbouring towns.

"The food and drink scene and the evening economy in Warrington has grown substantially in the past few years and it now offers a valuable alternative for the residents to have a good time with a diversity of bars and restaurants."

Istanbul Grill is also aiming to specialise in birthday celebrations and special occasions with banners and balloons included in the price for group bookings.