A new Miller and Carter steak restaurant is opening in St Albans tomorrow.
The outlet is opening at the former O’Neill’s pub on Victoria Street.
General manager Claudio Peddis said: “It’s been entertaining because the building had a few issues, so they spent quite a lot of money to convert it.
“Last Wednesday we had a soft opening with friends and family. That went really well actually and gives us a chance to mess it up!”
The restaurant is running a social media campaign in its first week to drum up interest, and Claudio has also been touring local businesses to introduce himself and the restaurant.
He said: “It is kind of difficult because it is Christmas time, so some people will be really busy and say ‘yeah, yeah, we’ll come round’ - it’s a difficult time of year.
“But there’s quite a lot of interest because people have come round asking when we’re opening. We have had a few people come in for a look who’ve shown interest.
“This place was meant to open in April but because of the issues that had to be put back.
“The company wanted to make sure St Albans knew about us because the public knew it was going to open and we didn’t want to disappoint them, so they pushed it to now so we didn’t disappoint the community.
“I’m expecting a lot of interest but not necessarily super busy because we’re quite new.
“We’re going to control it so everything comes out spot-on and perfect.
“We’re a premium brand - we get the best four per cent out of the beast. I think people will come here because they want the good steak.
“This is a good addition for St Albans because I went round a few places and people said they can’t wait for us to open.
“There’s only another one in St Albans - Prime - but they’re a little bit different from us.”
“So I think we’ll do really well.”
Miller and Carter serve 12 cuts of British and Irish-grown beef, which is first matured for 30 days.
The company has over 50 steakhouses across the UK.
Regional business manager Rob DeBell said: “Bringing Miller & Carter to St Albans is a fantastic opportunity for the brand and we look forward to providing the best steaks and service that Miller & Carter is renowned for.”
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