Readers have had their say after an employee confirmed a Mexican restaurant would soon be opening in the area.

Pieno Lleno, a Mexican restaurant which also has a Southend branch, is set to fully open a branch in Upminster in January 2024, an employee said on December 20.

The shop in 25 Station Road is already operating as a takeaway on delivery website JustEat but is set for a full opening early next year.

Since The Recorder published a story about its planned opening, there has been significant reaction.

Reader Mark Whiley welcomed the news. 

"Upminster is starting to become a great location for an adult night out with lots of local independent eateries offering different cuisines of high quality," Mark said.

RELATED NEWS: Pieno Lleno Mexican restaurant set to open in Upminster

He was joined by Tammy Levy who recognised that Pieno Lleno already has a branch in Southend, Essex.

"There's one of these in Southend," Tammy said. Pretty good."

But not everyone was convinced and one commenter predicted it would not last long.

"Definitely average," said Mark Edwards. "I give it 18 months max."

The premises at 25 Station Road was formerly a restaurant that had ceased to trade for a while, according to a previous planning application.

Despite some doubts, most people were happy with the news.

Elizabeth Allen said: "My favourite little restaurant in Southend. Never disappoints."

Another reader has already tried its cuisine using Pieno Lleno's takeaway service.

"[I] have had takeaway from there - was absolutely delicious," added Christine Morton.

Pieno Lleno offers items including fajitas, burritos, wraps, steaks and salads, as well as vegan options.

The restaurant also has gluten free options available. You can find out more at restaurant@pieno-lleno.co.uk