itsu to open first franchise restaurant in Reading on August 9

160-seat site will offer customers the choice of freshly prepared ‘grab and go’ takeaway options or a more leisurely dine-in experience

itsu, the Asian inspired healthy restaurant and grocery brand, is set to open its first franchise site in Reading on August 9.

The 2,970 square foot outlet will offer customers the choice of freshly prepared ‘grab and go’ takeaway options or a more leisurely dine-in experience.

The venue will seat up to 160 customers and operate with extended opening hours. 

In line with the company’s sustainability goals, the interior of the restaurant features repurposed tables and flooring. 

Order and pay screens with card-only payments are also being utilised, enabling customers to place their orders in under 40 seconds.

itsu founder Julian Metcalfe says: “The contemporary design of the new restaurant complements the healthy and moreish Asian inspired dishes. 

“The menu features exciting, affordable dining options ideal for family meals or romantic dinners.

“Diners can enjoy a copious range of healthy options, with the kitchen relying on pressure cooking and steaming, to tantalise the taste buds.”

itsu CEO Ganan Kanagathurai says: “Located just off the M4 and a short trip from the city centre and football stadium, Reading Gate Retail Park is the perfect location for itsu to engage a new audience that’s looking for affordable dining. 

“Reading’s population is growing rapidly and the new Elizabeth line that will further connect Reading to London promises to see this growth continue still further.

“We’re very excited to be expanding itsu’s presence in Reading and demonstrating to the local community what eating beautiful looks like.

“There is growing consumer demand for healthy food options that can be enjoyed either on the go or in restaurants.

“We’re delighted to be working in partnership with Heart with Smarts for this restaurant, who bring a wealth of experience in franchising and have demonstrated a real passion for the itsu brand.”

itsu recently signed an agreement with Savvi Dining Group to open its second franchise outlet in the UK in Leicester in September.