Two new restaurants are opening in Maidstone town centre this month.

The Giggling Squid, specialising in Thai cooking, moved into the former Ask Italian unit in Earl Street on Monday.

It comes eight years after plans to come to the County Town were scrapped.

The chain already operates 38 venues - including in Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells.

Giggling Squid's co-founder, Andy Laurillard, said: "Every Giggling Squid has its own personal touch to it, and this restaurant is no different; it’s a beautifully designed space that we hope will bring a lot of pleasure to our guests. We can’t wait to welcome everyone in the Maidstone community.

“Thai mealtimes are energetic, informal, adventurous and where food is celebrated."

Returning to Maidstone's streets is Pizza Express, which shut in 2020, having been based in the County Town since 1989.

Its return, on May 12, will be to a new location next to Five Guys on Earl Street.

The new restaurants follow others which have recently opened their doors in the last six months including Viva Las Vegan and Taco Bell.

Fremlin Walk centre manager, Lloyd Wright, said: “The good news keeps coming at Fremlin Walk. We're also absolutely thrilled that Pizza Express will be opening soon; the brand fits perfectly with our plans to increase our food and beverage offer.

"As the County Town of Kent, Maidstone is an important destination and Fremlin Walk is perfectly positioned to offer contemporary accommodation."