A NEW sushi business is set to open its doors within weeks in place of a former Chinese restaurant in Rayleigh High Street.

You Me Sushi, an up-and-coming chain of Sushi restaurants, has confirmed it will open in late April or early May and a “coming soon” banner has been placed outside the restaurant.

Yat Wongs was a popular Chinese takeaway and restaurant at 128 High Street until it closed at the start of this year.

The chain operates more than 20 restaurants around London, but only one in Essex at Lakeside Shopping Centre.

Danielle Belton, chair of Rayleigh Town Council, welcomed the news and insisted it is always exciting when new businesses open in the High Street.

She said: “I think it is brilliant.

“The fact that chains want to come and invest in Rayleigh High Street is a sign it is continuing to thrive.

“I am really excited. Sushi is popular and fashionable, and it is also good to fill up a vacant site.

“I am a fan of any new business opening up in Rayleigh, as it is great for us.

“Especially if a business is doing well elsewhere and wants to invest in our high street. It shows Rayleigh continues to be an up-and-coming town where businesses thrive.

“It is great news.”

The restaurant specialises in “fresh handmade sushi” alongside Japanese staples like katsu curry Announcing the move to Rayleigh, a You Me Sushi spokesman said: “You Me Sushi is bringing the taste of Japan to Rayleigh.

“Get ready, Rayleigh foodies, because something delicious is about to roll into town.

“We are thrilled to announce the upcoming arrival of You Me Sushi, your new go-to spot for fresh hand-rolled sushi, authentic Japanese cuisine, and mouthwatering chicken katsu curry.

“We are passionate about delivering the finest flavours of Japan right to your doorstep.

“From meticulously crafted sushi rolls bursting with freshness to comforting bowls of chicken katsu curry, we are here to satisfy all your cravings.

“We can’t wait to share our passion for Japanese cuisine with you.”