Tickets for the soft opening events of Deal Pier Kitchen were snapped up in hours.

New occupiers Tim Biggs, 29, and Rebecca Hodson, 27, released 135 complimentary tickets on Monday for three sneak preview events at the new café. And by lunchtime, they’d all gone.

Mr Biggs said: “It was quite a shock to see how quickly they went. It was really exciting."

He and Ms Hodson are preparing for the January opening and he said: “We’ve had lots of positive feedback from the public.

“Lots of people were disappointed they couldn’t make the soft launches but we hope to welcome them in the New Year.”

The first opening is from 11am until 2pm tomorrow (Saturday), and again on Sunday, December 23 and Thursday, December 27.

The friends, who previously worked together at Canterbury wedding venue Winters Barns, will be offering a limited brunch-focused menu featuring dishes such as poached eggs and avocado, Morroccan style baked eggs and a limited bakery selection. Customers will also receive a 25% discount.

The events will also be a chance to meet the duo, who beat off strong competition to secure the 20-year lease from Dover District Council (DDC). Their new team of about 10 people will also be there to greet and serve guests.

Mr Biggs and Miss Hodson’s vision includes making it an all day eaterie, with eco friendly elements fused into the decor. It will be completely dog friendly.

They also plan to host special events like apron and hammer nights, teaching diners how to crack into shell fish preparation.

Over the past six weeks, the building has undergone a refurbishment including a new re-designed kitchen and new bar area which features a bespoke glass rack welded from metal by Deal based Fabweld.

Mr Biggs said: “We’re really pleased with the refurbishment but it’s not been without it’s hiccups.

“There’s been delays with the furniture preventing us for opening before this week, but Dover District Council have been very supportive and we’re excited to share our offering with the people of Deal and we especially look forward to the opening in the New Year.”

The doors will open on a permanent basis from 9am on Friday, January 4 - exactly one year after its forerunner Jasin’s Restaurant closed.

The potential of the building was teased as a destination restaurant in the ITV thriller Liar, broadcast last autumn. It closed shortly after and has remained so.

Deal Pier Kitchen will not open on Boxing Day.