An Asian food chain geared around healthy eating has opened its first restaurant in Hertfordshire this week.

Itsu, which has numerous bases in London, is expanding to five new areas including St Peter’s Street in St Albans.

Among its staples are fresh sushi, wholegrain brown rice, greens, steamed dumplings and hot noodle dishes, with 50 per cent of the menu featuring hot food.

Itsu founder Julian Metcalfe said: “Our hot menu starts at £2.49, our dine-in & takeaway fresh food is nutritious, light & packed with bold, exciting flavours.

Watford Observer: Itsu opened its first Hertfordshire restaurant this week. Picture: itsuItsu opened its first Hertfordshire restaurant this week. Picture: itsu

"It’s about time our industry worked harder at this, to offer decent food at a decent price.

“Covid has highlighted the need and joy of eating well and eating local.”

The restaurant will offer visitors a meal for around £7 from a dine-in or takeaway menu.

After 5pm the hot menu will be served in traditional ceramic Japanese bowls to create an authentic dining experience. 

Watford Observer: Inside the new St Albans restaurant. Picture: itsuInside the new St Albans restaurant. Picture: itsu

There will also be 34 al fresco dining seats to meet increasing demand for outdoor eating.

Mr Metcalfe added: “Itsu’s restaurant openings are not about making a quick buck, they’re about post-Covid customer demand for better food.

“As the rise in health continues and more of us keep shopping local, we hope it won’t be long before an itsu could on all local high streets, helping people make better food choices.”

The chain says 38 per cent of its menu is plant based as part of its focus on the future of food.

More than 30 local jobs will also be created.