A NEW Mexican-inspired restaurant set to open at a former jewellers in Southend High Street has revealed its opening date.

Plan Burrito is set to be the latest fast-food addition to the High Street after husband and wife team Riju Vargghese and Sharon Riju have transformed the former Warren James jewellers - with the help of well-known Southend businessman Aras Ali.

The restaurant specialises in Tex-Mex street food including tacos, churros and a full range of burritos. 

The franchisees have now revealed they are set to open on Monday, March 18, with the menu set to be revealed throughout this week.

Sharon and Riju were still discussing plans for their grand opening when they spoke to the Echo last week, but for customers whose eyes are as big as their stomachs, a "Plan vs Man" eating challenge will see diners take on a “giant” burrito.

If they manage it, the brave customer will win a prize and end up on the restaurant's "wall of fame".

The restaurant will offer “blue light” discounts to NHS and emergency services workers, along with discounts for students as Plan Burrito hopes to attract the University of Essex and college students in the city.