A highly-anticipated new south Essex bistro diner is planning to open next week and is advertising for job roles.

The newly refurbished, 50-seat Urban Lounge is set to open in place of former coffee shop, The Yard, on Eastwood Road close to the junction with Rayleigh High Street on Wednesday.

(Image: Urban Lounge)

James Warren, 38, from Hullbridge, said he and business partner, Leisha, who have more than two decades of culinary experience working in hotels and restaurants across the country, said they did not want to miss the opportunity to have their own business.

He said the business will serve Mexican-style food and he is looking forward to making unique food “more accessible” to the community.(Image: Urban Lounge) He said: “From growing up around the area, I am quite exited to be opening in Rayleigh. When the location came up, we were inspired to deliver food not readily available in the area.

“It’s more about making nice food accessible to the area. It’s about giving back to the community. We hope to be a part of the community for a long time. We are really excited, hopefully it is going to be really cosy and people will really enjoy spending time there.”

(Image: Urban Lounge)

(Image: Urban Lounge)

The new restaurant will sport a breakfast menu, as well as an evening menu including burritos, fajitas and tacos.

Desserts include waffles, pancakes, various wraps, and will be complemented by a drinks menu.

Mr Warren hopes a “modern atmosphere” will help customers enjoy intimate meals.