A NEW restaurant has opened in Yate as part of a drive to create an evening economy in the town’s shopping centre.

Regional Italian restaurant operator Bottelinos, has opened in North Parade with space to seat up to 160 people and a bar area capable of holding another 100 customers.

Owner Mike Botta said: “This, our fifth restaurant, is an exciting opportunity for us to give people the opportunity to explore our award-winning Italian cuisine.

“Our presence on North Parade in such a prominent location will help to attract passers-by into the centre so that hopefully all traders will benefit.”

The restaurant is being seen as a major boost to Yate Shopping Centre and brings back into use several long-standing vacant units.

Shopping centre manager Andrew Lowrey said: “Bottelinos opening in Yate is a terrific boost for the town and the shopping centre.

“They are a well-known local name and bringing these units back into use will help the centre as a whole. In addition, nearly 30 local people have secured jobs working there, thus reinforcing our role as one of the major employers in the town."

Bottelinos will be open from 12noon to 11pm Monday to Saturday and until 10.30pm on Sundays.