THE doors of a new £1million bar and restaurant have finally opened to the public after a long-anticipated wait.

Revolution, on Queens Road, in Southend - the former HMV site - has been in the making for a long time. It officially opened to the public on Friday.

The impressive venue offers a blend of creative cocktails, food, mixology masterclasses and late-night parties, and the grand opening featured entertainment including a DJ and a complimentary cocktail for all guests.

Darren Guyon, general manager of Revolution Southend: “We’re excited to be opening our doors in Southend, as we feel we can offer something extra special for locals and tourists alike.

“Whether visiting for lunch, dinner or an evening out, we’re sure all our guests will look forward to trying our delicious pizzas, burgers and wraps, as well as our premium cocktails, spirits, beers and wines.”

The opening has gone down well with residents, who are excited that there is another night-time venue in the town.

Gabby Alexander, 30, of Southchurch Avenue, Southend, said: “It’s great that Southend finally has a new place to eat and drink, I think we need more places like this.

“There is nothing else in the town like this so it is really good and hopefully will bring more people to Southend.

“What would be great if more came and we could become like Chelmsford which had loads of choice.”

Jonah Ripley, from Westcliff, a camera technician and web series presenter, shared the excitement.

The 24-year-old said: “I think it’s fantastic – I’m glad that it’s not other Starbucks in Southend because we have to many coffee shops.

“This place is huge. The old HMV was big and what a great location, it will bring people back down to Queens Road. Not having it in the High Street is a better move.”

The Southend branch will see the company increase its portfolio to 67 cars across the UK - with the new site showcasing a new look design, moving away from the current style trend of urban reclaimed materials.

Ahead of the grand opening, a lucky few got a sneak peak when the venue hosted a charity dinner. A food truck also parked up in the town.