A NEW restaurant, owned by a chef who has become a familiar name of TV, has opened at Lakeside in Thurrock, bringing with it 40 new jobs.

Tapas Revolution has opened on The Boardwalk in the heart of the centre's waterfront leisure area and the independent operator's site features Spanish inspired decor, with menu development being led by the company's executive chef and owner, Madrid-born Omar Allibhoy Cuende.

He has won several awards and maintained a career as a successful TV chef, with numerous appearances including "Saturday Kitchen", appearing alongside other prestigious chefs and household names.

A spokesperson for the company said: "Tapas Revolution brings authentic Spanish tapas, large sharing plates, sangria & cocktails to the site. While the menu stays true to traditional, authentic tapas, the look and concept is reminiscent of airy, modern day Barcelona or Ibiza. Offering an all-day dining experience, the 130 seater venue also features a "Spanish Terraza" for over 40 people to soak up the summer sun."

The Lakeside restaurant is the latest in the expansion of the Spanish Restaurant Group, who already serve their unique brand of Spanish cuisine in cities including Brighton, Bath and Birmingham.

Since opening their first Tapas Revolution bar and restaurant at Westfield Shepherd's Bush back in 2010, the brand has gone from strength to strength with their selection of tapas, vino and cervezas bringing tastes typical of those found in cities and villages across Spain.

James Picton, Managing Director of the Spanish Restaurant Group said: "We are incredibly proud and excited to continue to grow the Tapas Revolution brand with the launch of our Lakeside Bar and Restaurant following the success and overwhelmingly positive feedback we have received since reopening our current locations, and launching our most recent restaurant and bar in Brighton.

"We are confident that our bustling and vibrant location on The Boardwalk will be well received, and we very much look forward to bringing a taste of true Spanish hospitality and culture to the people of Essex."

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Providing opportunities for those local to the restaurant is high on the agenda for Tapas Revolution.

The opening of the venue has already provides a boost to the hospitality sector in the area through the creation of 40 roles within the restaurant, covering positions from front of house and waiting staff through to bartenders, kitchen and chef positions.

The team at the Lakeside venue are planning several community events for local groups, artists and producers.

Mr Picton continued: "We are proud to be able to contribute to the local community in so many ways, and recognise aspiring talent in recruiting team members, by providing a setting which can support local artists and also by using ingredients sourced from local producers. Our commitment to the communities we operate within is demonstrated across the group and we are thrilled to develop this further in Thurrock."

Tapas Revolution at The Boardwalk in Lakeside has over 170 covers and is open daily from 11am to 11pm.