EAGER diners have heaped praise on Southend’s sleek Asian-inspired pan-pacific restaurant nestled in a luxurious seafront development.

On Friday night, Zinnia was packed out with excited guests who descended on the new Western Esplanade restaurant as it officially opened its doors.

Buzz Carter and his girlfriend Gemma Candman, from Southend, were the first to enter when it opened and after some initial hiccups, they insisted it was a great night and were impressed the venue.

Echo: Diners - people in the Zinnia Southend restaurant spaceDiners - people in the Zinnia Southend restaurant space (Image: Newsquest)

 

They said: “As soon as we stepped inside Zinnia, we were given a free glass of champers, which was so lovely.

“However, it did appear chaotic at first with the staff running around and tills not working, but you’re going to get that on opening night and it turned into a brilliant night.

“A little while later, the venue was alive with the loud music, vibrant lighting and more people coming in.”

Diners were wowed as they were whisked into the show-stopping restaurant space, which is splashed with pink, purple and blur lighting alongside cherry blossom trees. 

Jolanda Barhams, from Southend, feasted on a series of dishes with her partner which they scored a perfect ten out of ten.

 

Echo: Diners - (L to R) Steven Barham, Mary Barham, Paddy Nutman and Jolanda BarhamDiners - (L to R) Steven Barham, Mary Barham, Paddy Nutman and Jolanda Barham (Image: Newsquest)

She said: “The food we ate was absolutely perfect.

“What made it even more special was the beautiful setting and the wonderful staff.

“Zinnia Southend is 100 per cent a must-do. We’ll certainly be coming back soon.”

The restaurant also boasts an exclusive entrance for anyone living inside the Clifftown Shore flat development above, including Derek Colyer and wife Jacqueline.
 

Echo: Guests - Jacqueline and Derek ColyerGuests - Jacqueline and Derek Colyer (Image: Newsquest)

 

Derek said: “I like it, especially how vibrant the place is.

“I live in the building, and it’s great that a part of the development is there for community use.

“I love the exclusive entrance for residents because it saves us having to go outside to then go back in again.

“Everything - the staff, food and drinks  is great, and I feel Zinnia will do well.”