Ipswich Waterfront restaurant is going well following launch

Grand Central on the Waterfront in Ipswich

The newest restaurant at Ipswich Waterfront is going very well, according to its owner Steve Haslam of regional pub and restaurant company TLC Inns.

The American-themed Grand Central bar and restaurant overlooks the Old Custom House, and is close to the water, and has been newly created in a large commercial space, part of which was formerly the Quayside restaurant.

It is a stunning transformation, full of sharp design and with plenty of USA themes and features within it.

TLC Inns director Steve Haslam said: “We are absolutely ecstatic about the first six/seven weeks here in Ipswich.

“We have had lots of support and thousands of new customers and we are looking forward to a busy summer.

“There have been thousands of them, which is absolutely amazing.

“It think it has been a good addition to the Waterfront. I think it is bringing more people, and business, to the Waterfront which is good for the town.

“We are offering something a bit different.”

Launching any new business was difficult, and could have teething problems, he added.

“Any business opening is a big learning curve. We have tried to put a big team together.

“Even with a month’s training, there is no substitute to live working when people come in through the door.

“We haven’t got everything right first time,

“We are pretty confident now we are 95% there, to ensure every part of the business and arrangements are in place for people to make sure their visit is a positive experience.

“We have had a great response.

“This a major investment and a major new business.

“We have had a few teething problems. We take any feedback personally and we are determined to get things right.

“Customer feedback is very important to us.

“Over the coming weeks we are going to start offering some entertainment, and themed nights, featuring local bands and acts.

“It is a suggestion that has come from our staff, and our customers.

“There are a lot of thoughts coming out about the business and developing it.”

“We have several promotions/offers planned and we would like to do some promotions with Ipswich Town Football Club for the new football season.

“It is important to be part of the community.

“It would be great to see Ipswich Town getting up the upper echelons of football again.”

TLC Inns as a company is is continuing to grow.

He added: “We are already planned our next Grand Central restaurant, in Chelmsford, which will be our fifth Grand Central.

“It is really exciting.”