The £84m new Whiteley Shopping Centre, close to junction 9 on the M27, opens on 23 May with a mixture of close to 50 shops – from the most recognisable major high street name to independent retailers, including a baker and greengrocer.
The new development, which has created a total of around 1,000 jobs, sits on the site of the original Whiteley Village outlet centre. The three “anchor” stores are Tesco, Marks & Spencer and Next, whilst almost all of the other stores are new to the site..
Also new at Whiteley are most of the dining options, including Chimichanga, Prezzo and Dean’s Diner.
Chimichanga
Chimichanga has been designed to reflect the colour and vibrancy of Mexico, highlighting its historical past and its contemporary street culture, and will have seating for 40 diners at the front of the restaurant, 70 diners on the ground floor, with an additional 40 seats on the mezzanine level.
Chimichanga chief executive, Jonathan Kaye, said: “We are excited to be opening our restaurant in the new shopping centre. Mexican food is more popular than ever and I am confident that people of all ages will enjoy the food and drink on offer.”
Prezzo
Will specialise in popular and innovative Italian food, including pizza, pasta, grills and light options. The restaurant also has a children’s menu.
It will have seating for 66 diners on the ground floor, with an additional 48 seats on the mezzanine level, and seating for 38 diners at the front of the restaurant.
Prezzo chief executive Jonathan Kaye said: “I am confident that Prezzo will prove popular with people of all ages. “The restaurant will serve the highest quality food in comfortable and stylish surroundings.2
Dean’s Diner – new classic American diner
Dean’s Diner will offer a wide choice of meals, specialising in burgers, ribs, rotisserie chicken, wraps, fries and sides, also offering 13 different milkshakes, a selection of American beers and wines, authentic American pancakes, sundaes and desserts.
Seating will be for 80 diners, of which ten will be seated at the counter, and 40 can dine on the outside terrace.
Restaurant manager Hannah Williams said: “I’m confident that Dean’s Diner will prove popular with people of all ages. The restaurant will bring the spirit of the American diner experience to Fareham.”