A SUCCESSFUL couple which owns “several” south Essex businesses are selling their Italian restaurant for nearly £200,000 as they prepare to retire early.

Amber Hussein and her husband Surinder Paul have owned Trattoria Verde, in the former station master’s house next to Thorpe Bay Station, for nearly 15 years.

However, they have put the business on the market for £195,000 as part of their “five-year retirement plan”, with estate agent Dedman Gray.

Echo: The extension houses Trattoria Verde's main dining room, while the bar is located in the old station master's house.The extension houses Trattoria Verde's main dining room, while the bar is located in the old station master's house. (Image: Dedman Gray)

Amber also runs Le Salon Chic, a beauty parlour “within spitting distance of the restaurant”, on Thorpe Bay Broadway. The business operates in a converted NatWest bank.

Gerard Biagioni, from Dedman Gray, praised the couple’s success as they look to sell their business.

He said: “They’ve been clever and lucky enough to start thinking about their retirement before reaching the usual retirement age.

“But they’re both young at heart.

“Their plan is to move out of the business and pass it on to somebody else, as part of their five-year retirement plan.”

Echo: The conservatory offers views of the greenery outside.The conservatory offers views of the greenery outside. (Image: Dedman Gray)

Trattoria Verde, built in a converted station building, has forged a good reputation with as a popular venue for family dinners.

It boasts a front patio for “al fresco” dining, which is enjoyed by customers.

The family-owned restaurant is rated four stars on TripAdvisor, where diners have praised the “lovely” staff and “amazing” food.

Reviewer A Ramsay, from Leigh, said: “It’s very much an ‘old school Italian’ but it offers beautiful food at great prices.

“The garlic bread with cheese is particularly good and the pizzas are amazing. There is also friendly service. Give it a go.”

Echo: Highly recommended - customers have praised the restaurant's food and service.Highly recommended - customers have praised the restaurant's food and service. (Image: Dedman Gray)

It faces Thorpe Bay Station, which serves commuters heading to and from London Fenchurch Street.

The ground floor of the original station master’s house serves as a reception, bar and an “overspill area” for when the restaurant is busy. Upstairs, there are three rooms which are used for staff accommodation, along with a domestic kitchen and a storage room.

A single-storey extension at the side of the original building houses the main dining area and the restaurant’s kitchen.