UPDATE: A new Italian restaurant, Sul-Mare, is experiencing an overwhelming surge in popularity just days after its grand opening on January 2, 2023. Located in the transformed former Galley Fisheries chip shop on Leysdown Road, the restaurant has already drawn crowds eager to taste its offerings.
Owner Al Jabir Miah expressed his surprise at the immediate success, stating, “We’ve been super busy already.” He noted that the restaurant opened early in January to allow staff to adapt to his high standards, but the response from the community has exceeded expectations.
The grand opening took place last night, where approximately 40 guests, including local officials such as Cllr Karen Watson and those who contributed to the £200,000 renovation, gathered to celebrate. Miah remarked on the importance of the night, saying, “It’s a big opening night… Everyone we invited is here, and they’re enjoying the food.”
Despite the challenges faced during the renovation process, including personal family matters, Miah is thrilled to have Sul-Mare operational. His wife, Alona Gorbunova, shared her surprise at the busy trial run, thanking the community for their support. “We want this to be a place where people can come with their families, relax and have a great meal,” she stated.
The restaurant has created nine jobs, including head chef Mario Iovino, originally from Naples, Italy. The menu features a variety of seafood, pasta, and pizza, aiming to offer an authentic Italian dining experience to locals and visitors alike.
Miah, who has over 26 years of experience in the hospitality industry, previously managed The Dining Room in Sheppey and has a successful track record in transforming dining establishments. He expressed gratitude for the hard work of his team, stating, “Our builders, carpenters, and electricians have done a fantastic job.”
As the summer season approaches, Miah anticipates an influx of holidaymakers to the seaside village, raising questions about how Sul-Mare will manage the expected demand. “I don’t know what I’m going to do when the holidaymakers flock here,” he joked.
The rapid success of Sul-Mare highlights a growing trend of community support for new local businesses, especially in traditionally quieter months like January. With the restaurant’s promising start, locals are eager to see how it will thrive in the bustling tourist season.
The community’s reception of Sul-Mare is a testament to the power of resilience and dedication in the face of challenges. As the restaurant continues to gain traction, it underscores the importance of local establishments in providing quality dining experiences.
For those in the area, now is the time to experience what Sul-Mare has to offer before the summer rush begins. Don’t miss out on this exciting new addition to the culinary landscape of Sheppey.
