A POPULAR south Essex steakhouse is up for sale as its owner steps back after nearly a decade in charge to raise his family.

Barrington Grill, in Hockley Road, specialises in American barbecue food, small plates and tapas.

It is currently listed at £99,500 with estate agent Dedman Gray.

Owner Mike Sutton helped found the restaurant in 2015.

After two years as the general manager, he bought the restaurant from its original owners in 2017.

Mike, who was “born and bred” in Rayleigh, says he is “moving on” as his family grows.

Echo: Grill - Mike is proud of his American barbeque-inspired menu, which features kebabs.Grill - Mike is proud of his American barbeque-inspired menu, which features kebabs. (Image: Mike Sutton)

He said: “I started when I was 29. I’m 38 now. In that time, I’ve got married and had a son who’s now three years old. We’re trying for another baby this year.

“I bought the place with the aspiration to grow it, which I’ve done, but now I’m moving on.

“I’m a family man now. My wife’s got a very good job in the City, so I’d much rather spend time with my son than working at the restaurant.”

Echo: Family man - Mike wants to spend more time with his three-year-old son, Zachary.Family man - Mike wants to spend more time with his three-year-old son, Zachary. (Image: Mike Sutton)

Mike admits the last few years have been “challenging” for the restaurant industry. However, he says the difficult period has taught him “resilience”.

“I’ve learned so much about pure resilience,” he said.

“It’s been such a good ride, but now I want to look after my family.”

Echo: Popular - the restaurant seats 72 diners over two floors.Popular - the restaurant seats 72 diners over two floors. (Image: Mike Sutton)

But before stepping back, Mike is keen for his business to go into “the right hands”.

He added: “My blood is in those walls. I did all the refurbishment and redecorating myself during lockdown.

“I built this business from the roots up, so I would love for it to continue as Barrington Grill.”

Within weeks of going on sale, Barrington has received offers from “a small handful of interested parties”.

However, Mike insists he will only accept offers from independent business owners.

Echo: Shared responsibility - Zoe Sutton has supported her husband's business and has forged a successful career of her own.Shared responsibility - Zoe Sutton has supported her husband's business and has forged a successful career of her own. (Image: Mike Sutton)

He added: “I want to select the most appropriate candidate for that site.

“I would only entertain independent offers, as I believe it would be perfect in independent hands, not a chain.

“We’ve built up a good reputation, with a strong brand, so it’s such a great opportunity.”

View the listing on the Dedman Gray website.