THE opening date for a new 200-seat three-floor restaurant in Basingstoke has been announced.

As previously reported, the owner of the new Vaultz Bar Restaurant is hoping to transform the Top of Town with his new venture.

Ernie Phelps, who already owns Plush Lounge Bar – a nightclub in Wote Street – has completely transformed the former Lloyds Bank unit into a restaurant and cocktail bar.

READ MORE: New 200-set restaurant and bar set to 'transform' Basingstoke's Top of Town

Following months of anticipation, Mr Phelps has now announced that the venue will open on Thursday, October 5 when invited guests will enjoy an exclusive first look inside.

Those hoping to be one of the first to dine at the new restaurant can submit their contact details online and will be notified when table bookings open.

The new restaurant will offer modern, European cuisine using fresh, quality ingredients, with many sourced locally.

A large bar area in the centre of the restaurant will feature fresh cocktails, made by four mixologists.

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Mr Phelps is employing a team of 25 to run the restaurant and bar, which he hopes will also cater for weddings and private events.

The businessman acquired the second floor of the unit after its former occupiers Tot City closed down.

The bright and airy room is now being transformed to provide additional seating and will also accommodate a pastry kitchen as well as toilet facilities.

The downstairs floor, which houses the former bank vaults, will provide further seating for those who sign up to an exclusive membership club.

Members will benefit from the use of a safety deposit box, one hot drink per day from the venue’s barista, an option to retain your bottle and exclusive first access to tickets and events.

The restaurant will offer an a la carte-style menu, described as “the sophistication of fine dining fusion, with an atmosphere provided with live artist performances and DJs playing lower-level music”.

It adds: “Vaultz aim to give you an experience you won’t forget.”