BOSSES of Colchester's newest restaurant have shared their excitement ahead of its grand opening of what will be the first in the county.

The multi-million-pound Northern Gateway Project will see the new Slim Chickens open its doors. 

The site is open for delivery but will open fully next week. 

Slim Chickens is a renowned American brand celebrated for its buttermilk tenders, freshly made sandwiches and crispy wings.

The new site will be Colchester and Essex's first.

Tasty- Slim Chickens specialises in Southern-inspired dishes, and offers vegetarian and plant-based options. Tasty- Slim Chickens specialises in Southern-inspired dishes, and offers vegetarian and plant-based options. (Image: Slim Chickens)

Ben Blore, head of operations at Slim Chickens, expressed his excitement about the brand’s expansion into Colchester.

He said: “I want to express my sincere gratitude to the incredible team at the Colchester site and our openings team for making all this possible.

“Their hard work and dedication allow our sites to open and deliver fresh, cooked-to-order chicken every time, ensuring the best experience for our guests.”

To celebrate its opening on June 20, the first 30 guests in line will receive a complimentary serving of three Slim Chickens’ chicken tenders.

Menu- Slim Chickens is renowned for its buttermilk chicken tenders and crispy wings.Menu- Slim Chickens is renowned for its buttermilk chicken tenders and crispy wings. (Image: Slim Chickens)

With sports shown all day at Slim Chickens, diners can experience special deals for the Euro Cup 2024.

The restaurant will also introduce Slim Chickens Golden Tickets in Colchester, meaning when customers order a meal in-store via the till, they will be given a golden ticket to use on their next visit where they might win free prizes.

Colchester Council leader and Mile End councillor David King shared his excitement as the Northern Gateway site continues to progress.

He said: “I am pleased to hear another restaurant is opening.

"It’s a great site with joys for every palette and every leisure instinct.

“It’s great to see the final stages of development for the recreational and leisure facilities for Colchester and beyond.”

Progress- The Northern Gateway continues to approach completion, with several attractions already open. Progress- The Northern Gateway continues to approach completion, with several attractions already open. (Image: Newsquest)

Slim Chickens is one of many restaurants at the new Northern Gateway development.

Greggs and Wendy's have already opened restaurants at the site, with other brands set to open including Kervan Kitchen, El Guaca Mexican restaurant, Kaspa’s Desserts, Joyato Sushi and Grill, buffet company Nines and Taste of Italy.

Slim Chickens will open on June 20.

The following day, the site's new entertainment hub, Hollywood Bowl, will also open its doors.