A TOWN centre restaurant will throw open its doors to the public for the first time this weekend.

Blackburn’s newest Italian restaurant, Gioia, on Church Street in Blackburn has created 23 new jobs and an investment of more than £100,000.

It’s owner’s Mike Hajewskyj’s first restaurant project, but he has a background working in restaurants and bars, but previously had a career as a mechanical engineer before beginning his latest venture.

He said: “I went into mechanical engineering for a while but had quite a severe car accident last year and had to have a spinal operation, which ended my career. 

“I wanted to do something that suits my lifestyle. I have a disabled child as well so I wanted to do something that I know and I know restaurants.” 

As well as a full restaurant, Gioia has a quick service deli counter, a wine bar and a children’s play area.

He said: “I wanted the food to be authentic, back to how it should be. 

“We aren’t doing American Italian dishes, we’re taking it right back to its roots with authentic dishes."

The restaurant is the latest new business attracted to the centre of Blackburn, and Mr Hajewskyj was delighted to be a part of its regeneration.

He said: “The regeneration is brilliant, it’s the right time now especially with all the other places open now. It’s a great vibe.”