AN alcohol-free restaurant offering a “multi-cultural dining experience” and a “healthier type of fun” is preparing to open in Southend city centre.  

Charcoal Flare, an eagerly-anticipated barbecue house in Alexandra Street, will welcome its very first customers from Saturday.

The halal eatery, owned by Mamataj Konica, is positioned inside a building which was previously home to The Venue bar, former nightclub Elements, and Baker’s Bar.

Bosses at Charcoal Flare, which will offer 40 per cent off to its first 50 customers next weekend, are now hoping their venture will bring something new to the city.

Echo:

Manager Deni Bloj said: “We are absolutely thrilled and excited to announce the long wait is finally over.

“The restaurant is halal and serves all types of street food, but integrated in a dine-in restaurant.

“We have a lot of non-alcoholic products, but no alcohol. We are introducing plant-based spirits which can get you tipsy, but not wasted.

“So, everyone can have a multi-cultural dining experience, with a new plant-based and healthier type of fun.”

In celebration of the grand opening, the first 100 customers will receive a discount, valid for a week.

There will also be a Christmas costume competition between 5pm and 8pm, with a free drink for everyone who takes part.

The winner will be awarded free food for their whole table and the runner-up will be given a 50 per cent discount, while the third placed participant will win free desserts.

Echo: The Boss - owner Mamataj KonicaThe Boss - owner Mamataj Konica (Image: Newsquest)

Deni added: “We are trying to introduce something new in Southend and we have a lot more surprises waiting for you.

“We accept walk-ins, but for bookings email charcoalflare1@gmail.com. See you soon.”

The transformation at the site comes after city centre management submitted plans to Southend Council in June for a mixed-use pub, restaurant, and several flats.

Speaking previously, Ian Gilbert, councillor responsible for economic recovery and regeneration, said: “I think it is really good to see plans come forward to get this building back up and running and in use again.

“It’s a key site in Southend, which has a long history of entertaining residents and has been closed for too long now.

“Alexandra Street has been a big part of Southend’s nightlife for a long time, and it would be great to see a reimagining of that building.”