THE resurgence of Hamlet Court Road has been handed a big boost as two best friends reveal plans to open a new restaurant.

Tsaropoulos Georgios, 39, and Emiliano Bardheci, 23, are behind the new Greek restaurant lined up for a former greengrocers in Hamlet Court Road, Westcliff.

The announcement comes as plans are considered to set up a business improvement district - which could see traders paying extra cash to revitalise once-bustling Hamlet Court Road, which was described as Southend’s second high street in its prime.

The opening of the new restaurant follows the announcement of a new bar heading in the old Clouseau’s bar, triggering more hopes of a business boost.

Mr Georgios and Mr Mardheci both lived and grew up in Greece before coming to the UK around five years ago.

They are hoping their new business will bring a different style of cuisine to Southend’s growing list of restaurants.

In a joint statement, they said: “We are so excited to be opening a new restaurant in Southend.

“We are trying to open something completely different from other Greek restaurants in the county and UK.

“We want a nice, classy, restaurant, with the best quality so Southend residents will leave with a big smile.

“There will be something for everyone on the menu, from fast food, like Souvlaki Gyros, to homemade food, like Pastitsio Mousaka.

“We are bringing a taste of our Greek culture and hope residents will feel like they are almost in Greece.

“We look forward to welcoming the community and everyone who wants to try our food in our new restaurant on Hamlet Court Road.”

Ian Gilbert, Southend Labour councillor responsible for economic recovery and regeneration, said: “It is good news.

“I think Hamlet Court Road is really important shopping and business area, and so it is really good to see more new businesses coming in.

“It is nice to hear, they hope to bring a bit of Greece to the city, and I think it all adds to the variety of the experiences on offer in bringing Hamlet Court Road back into life.”