A restaurateur has described his pride at its 15-year transformation from a coffee shop to a stylish cocktail bar.

Peppe Rosso owner Cavit Koyuncu believes the High Street premises is now unrecognisable after closing for a two-and-a-half-week refurbishment.

The 49-year-old has been involved with the High Street business over 15 years as it progressed from an old bakery, to a coffee shop, then an Italian restaurant and now adding a stylish bar.

Watford Observer: Pepe Rosso before (right) and after (left) the refurbishmentPepe Rosso before (right) and after (left) the refurbishment

The revamped eatery now has a wide-ranging cocktail menu and extended opening hours to 11pm.

Watford Observer: Owner Cavit KoyuncuOwner Cavit Koyuncu

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Cavit, who has lived in Watford for 25 years, said: “It feels very modern now, it has got a great atmosphere which feels warm in the evenings.

Watford Observer: Staff, Denis (left) and Ali (right) Staff, Denis (left) and Ali (right)

"Our ratings on Trip Advisor and sites like that were almost 5*s across the board and now I'm sure we are going to get even better.

"They are going to love it more."

Customers reacted to the announcement on Facebook saying, “a great gem”, “my favourite place to eat in Watford” and “love Pepe Rosso”.

Watford Observer: Pepe Rosso tablesPepe Rosso tables