Hythe Bay Seafood Restaurant and Bar is the latest establishment to open its doors in Deal.

The fresh fish restaurant in Beach Street is the third of its kind owned by Turrloo Parrett, 82, joining one in Hythe and a second in Dover.

Born in Folkestone and educated at the town’s Harvey Grammar School, Mr Parrett is also the proprietor of Eastwell Manor in Ashford.

He says he has been keen to open an eatery in the town for a while.

He said: “I’ve been looking at Deal for some time.

“I think it is a great town with a lot of potential and it’s clearly on the up in every way, with trade, ambience and the sea front - there’s nothing to fault it.”

Including the purchase of the property, Mr Parrett has invested more than £1 million into the new business.

Its art deco interior has been designed by Paul Young from Ashford. The restaurant carries a blue theme with a feature wall of water behind the bar and infinity mirrors in the bathrooms.

He already employs about 20 local staff, including chef Jamie Colvin, formerly of Wallett’s Court in St Margaret’s. Mr Colvin comes with 17 years of experience and was chosen after trials at the Dover restaurant.

In time, Mr Parrett is looking to take on up to 40 full and part time members of staff.

The restaurant will serve high quality locally sourced fish from the beaches in Hythe and Deal, with daily specials according to local catches and availability.

Mr Parrett said: “Everybody who comes to Deal comes to look at The Pier and so there isn’t a better position for us.

“We feel we’ve been well received so far, and we’re very pleased about that.”

A soft launch, which took place on Tuesday, December 13, will be followed by an official launch in the New Year, with a high profile guest invited to attend.

Hythe Bay Seafood Restaurant and Bar is open from noon until 10pm daily.