A deli offering floral-themed cocktails and vegan dishes will be opening in the intu shopping centre later this year.

The Florist will offer deli, rotisserie and grills along with a selection of gluten free, dairy free and vegan dishes.

Floral cocktails inspired by one of the three main styles of floristry - English Summer Garden, Ikebana and Modern Contemporary - will also be on offer.

Chris Hill, chief executive officer at the New World Trading Company who own The Florist, said: “We’re really excited to be opening The Florist at intu Watford; the centre is already a vibrant retail destination and we’re looking forward to offering a new dining and drinking experience to this affluent catchment.”

The Florist will be part of the new retail and leisure extension at intu Watford which is due to be completed next year.

A Cineworld and Hollywood Bowl are among leisure brands who have already signed up for space.

Rebecca Ryman, regional managing director, intu, said: “We’re delivering a fantastic retail and leisure mix at intu Watford by bringing in the best brands to provide more choice and appeal for our highly affluent customer base.

“When it opens later this year, the 400,000 sq ft extension will deliver the most compelling of experiences for our customers with 14 new stores and 11 new restaurants and leisure activities.

“Combined, this will cement the centre as a day through to evening destination. The Florist offers a special dining experience for customers and is a great addition to the retail mix at intu Watford.”