A new Kenilworth restaurant has hit the ground running since opening its doors for the first time on Sunday 8 December.

'The Ark' opened at The Square earlier this month, following the rebrand and relocation of Indian Ark from further down the road.

As well as the new name, the new 'urban culinary restaurant' and steakhouse is also serving a range of new dishes.

Opening night - which began with Mayor of Kenilworth Cllr Alan Chalmers opening the restaurant - was a big success with the evening fully booked.

"Everything went well," owner Rayes Khan told Nub News. 

"Obviously it is a new place with some teething problems, but we are all up and running. 

"We were fully booked and the feedback was good. 

"Everyone enjoyed their meals and the steak, they loved it here."

The business had been based further down Warwick Road for 12 years, and was a firm favourite of locals.

And while Rayes admitted it was sad to be leaving behind the old unit, he said he was really excited for the business' next chapter.

"Where we were, the position wasn't that great, but it wasn't great," he explained. 

"But now we are in the centre area, in the hustle and bustle.

"It is sad but I look at the other point of view, we are in a better location now."

The Ark has opened in the former home of Zizzi which closed in July.

The Ark opened for the first time on December 8 (image by James Smith)

Rayes said he had his eye on the restaurant for around four years, finally getting the keys in October.

That was followed by a "very hectic" few weeks getting it ready for opening.

And for those yet to try The Ark, Rayes added: "Expect good service, good food, like at Indian Ark. 

"People love the steak here, we haven't had any bad feedback yet.

"The decorations are really nice, and different to the other Kenilworth restaurants. A bit of an Amazon jungle vibe!

"This move and rebranding as 'The Ark' allows us to enhance what we offer while continuing to build strong relationships with the people and organisations that make Kenilworth special."

Book your table at The Ark now! (image by James Smith)

The Ark is offering not only its renowned Indian cuisine, but also a new range of dishes, including steaks and other modern culinary creations.

Guests can enjoy the restaurant's classic dishes alongside signature creations, such as Tandoori Chingri Silsila, Lime and Ginger Sea Bass, and Bengali Duck Stew, as well as steak options.

To reserve your spot or further information, call 01926 857373 or visit the website here.

Owner Rayes Khan outside the new location (image supplied)