A plush new steak, burger and dessert restaurant has opened in the heart of Blackburn.

Twenty One is based next to the Chaii Caffe off Freckleton Street and is the final part of the renovations to the building.

The building was formerly a warehouse which had gone into disrepair until it was taken over by developers. Following the opening of a business centre ahead of the lockdown and a chic café three years ago, plans were unveiled for the new restaurant.

Work began on the site off the corner of Weir Street during lockdown and the extension to the building has now been transformed into one of the town’s landmark buildings.

The new restaurant which also serves shisha in designated areas holds 150 guests over two floors and will bring 20 new jobs to the town. The restaurant officially opened over the weekend where a VIP launch attracted social media influencers and local businesses.

A new car park has been built on what was derelict land at the front of the site as well as a new entrance. Inside, the luxury seating and booths can cater for small to large parties.

Guests make their way through panels with spectacular water features as they enter and, in the evening, the whole restaurant is lit up. Upstairs a terrace area has further seating.

Management at the restaurant said the design and interior was inspired by the hotels of Dubai and they wanted to make use of the spacious area over two floors.

Hashim Adam: “It has been a really ambitious project from the start and something that we think we transform the area further.

“The café next door attracts people from across town and other towns. We hope Twenty One will continue to attract people.

“It is good for the town and good for the area.

“As anyone knows this building was run down and has been completely transformed. We are proud of the end result and we hope visitors will be too.”

The menu features smash burgers, steaks, pizzas and wraps. Signature dishes such as a Twenty One Steaks will only set you back £11.

Hashim said: “We have a real range of meals and are looking to reach out to couples and large parties.

“We have to say the food is reasonably priced. We have been running the Chaii Caffe for a number of years so we know we have a loyal following.

“The Milan dessert bar also has a huge variety on offer.”