A new Italian restaurant, Sul-Mare, has quickly gained popularity since its trial services began on January 2, 2024, at the former Galley Fisheries chip shop located on Leysdown Road. Owner Al Jabir Miah reported that the establishment has been “super busy,” even before its grand opening, which took place recently.
During the opening night, Miah expressed his delight at the overwhelming response from the local community. “The response we got from everyone is amazing, really,” he said. He launched the restaurant earlier this year to give staff time to adapt to his standards, but the demand has exceeded his expectations.
The restaurant’s transformation from a chip shop to an Italian dining venue involved a significant investment of £200,000. Miah, who resides above the restaurant, had been approached by his landlord about taking on the property two years ago. He has over 26 years of experience in the hospitality industry, previously managing The Dining Room in Sheppey and assisting a friend in turning a previous establishment into an award-winning Indian fine dining restaurant.
Around 40 guests attended the grand opening, including local councillors and Cllr Karen Watson, the Mayor of Swale. Miah acknowledged the hard work of the builders, carpenters, and electricians who contributed to the successful renovation.
His wife, Alona Gorbunova, expressed her surprise at the restaurant’s busy trial run. “We have been so warmly welcomed onto Sheppey, and this is our way of giving back,” she stated. The couple aims to create a family-friendly environment where patrons can relax and enjoy quality meals.
The restaurant employs nine staff members, including head chef Mario Iovino, originally from Naples, Italy. The menu features a variety of seafood, pastas, and pizzas, catering to diverse tastes. Miah and Gorbunova are optimistic about the future, especially as holidaymakers are expected to flock to the seaside village.
Despite the challenges faced during the setup, including personal family issues, Miah remains focused on delivering an exceptional dining experience. “I’m really glad that we’re open,” he concluded, highlighting the dedication of his team. As Sul-Mare continues to attract attention, it is poised to become a cherished destination for both locals and visitors alike.
