BARROW foodies are rejoicing as a popular restaurant has announced its grand return.

Francescas Restaurant in Barrow will be swinging open its doors this week after a temporary closure.

The Duke Street eatery has been serving customers for years before closing in 2021 during a Covid-19 lockdown.

Bosses behind the business said they were using the time during lockdown to ‘reinvest’ back into the business and ‘refreshing’ the restaurant.

Francescas is set to reopen its doors to customers today from 5pm.

A spokesman said staff are excited to see customers and show them an authentic taste of Italy.

He said: “It is time to celebrate as we are back!

“We have a new look restaurant that we can’t wait to show you and a brand new kitchen led by our Italian Head Chef Franco, giving you that authentic taste of Italy that you know and love from us.”

Mandy Moomoo Wadsworth said: “Are the old staff back, we made some lovely friends, I hope they are.”

Julie Clarke said: “Oh wonderful we’ve missed you very much.”

Julie Plevey said: “Can't wait for Saturday been looking forward to this place opening.”

Rose Campbell said: “That’s great I love this place.”

DaveM-22 said: “About time it reopened. Good luck to them I say.”

Dalton said: “Good luck to them.

Noah Manson said: “Good news to hear this place is back open.”