A NEW family-run Turkish restaurant and takeaway offering a “variety of traditional and special dishes” in the heart of Southend.

Victoria BBQ Bar is already proving a hit after opening across two floors in Southchurch Road, on the edge of the Victoria Shopping Centre.

The family behind the businesses are aiming to help customers “explore the world of traditional Turkish grilled meats and meze dishes” with dozens of customers stepping through the doors every day.

Ismail Yuksel, 54, and Sahin Yildirim, 36, are behind the business and use a host of home-made recipes.

Echo: The team - Victoria BBQ Bar Image: Victoria BBQ BarThe team - Victoria BBQ Bar Image: Victoria BBQ Bar (Image: Public)
Sabir Yildirim, 33, Sahin’s husband, said: “People are rushing in to try our delicious homemade food.

“We offer a variety of traditional dishes, such as our special chicken and lamb shawarma-leaf doner and mince meat herb meatballs, all in a warm, inviting and friendly atmosphere.

“As well as that, we have a range of alcoholic beverages on hand if people fancy a glass of bubbly with their meal.

“We have seating inside, but our next step with the business is to start a delivery service through Just Eat, which we’re waiting confirmation on, to reach those who live far away.”

In addition to the ground floor dining space, there is a second-floor seating area, which can hold between 50 and 60 people and be booked out for private occasions, such as birthday parties.

Echo: Inside - Victoria BBQ Bar Image: Victoria BBQ BarInside - Victoria BBQ Bar Image: Victoria BBQ Bar (Image: Public)
Echo: Delicious - Victoria BBQ Bar offering Image: Victoria BBQ BarDelicious - Victoria BBQ Bar offering Image: Victoria BBQ Bar (Image: Public)
Sabir added: “Everything we provide at Victoria BBQ Bar is to ensure people have a positive experience with us and are eager to come back.

“So far, the response has been amazing, with people leaving positive reviews of our takeaway and the delicious food.

“That all comes down to the hard work of our fantastic team.

“We’re over the moon to be open, and we really can’t wait to see what the future holds for Victoria BBQ Bar.”