A NEW American style diner has opened its doors in a busy shopping centre.

Shake Dog has replaced the casual American diner restaurant chain, Ed’s Easy Diner in The Mall, Blackburn.

The former Ed’s Easy Diner shut in October 2016 after the company was bought out after going into administration.

Bosses of the new Shake Dog chain, located in the Cobden Court area of The Mall, said they were confident of a bright future and would be providing good value food.

General manager Daniel Coletta, who formerly ran the Chocolat Emporium in Town Hall Street, Blackburn, said: “Shake Dog as a business has moved into the former site of Ed’s.

“It was a popular diner but was not the right type of place for Blackburn.

“It was too expensive.

“It made sense for us to set up on this site because it has been empty for some time.”

The former 1950s rock ‘n’ roll-style diner served American classics such as cheeseburgers, waffles and pancakes.

Mr Coletta said: “The menu has been scaled down massively.

“Ed’s Easy Diner's three page menu with 40 items was overwhelming for customers.”

The new store has changed its menu, to cater more to the consumer tastes in Blackburn.

Mr Coletta, who decided on a career change, said: “There has been a real positive response from consumers.

“Popular choices have included taco fries, green and cheese fries and our 100 per cent Irish beef burgers.”

The menu consists of eight types of fries and 16 different types of milkshake, as well as three varieties of hamburger - beef, chicken and veggie burgers.

Shake Dog has also introduced the Shake Dog Sundae, which consists of a brownie and three scoops of vanilla and chocolate ice cream.

Customers can also buy a special meal deal which includes a hamburger, signature fries and any soda for the price of £8.

They can upgrade their deal for an extra £2 if they want to buy a shake with their meal.

Mr Coletta said: “The people of Lancashire really appreciate the quality of food we provide.

“We know deliver good customer service and we care about the produce we sell to our customers.”

Shake Dog is part of a chain and has stores set up other restaurants in Blackpool, Reading and other venues across the UK. The store has hired 12 people and is now fully staffed.

It is open every day of the week from 9am to 5pm, except on Sunday when it opens from 10.30am to 4.30pm.