FOODIES in Bolton can enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean — after the opening of a new tapas restaurant.

The Tapaz Ristorante in Bradshawgate aims to offer an authentic taste of the region, serving up dishes such as paella, chorizo and fried calamari.

It is run by Mouloud Allaoui, who has been at the Ciao Napoli restaurant in Mawdsley Street for the past 22 years, working his way up from working as a chef.

Mr Allaoui decided to expand his business with a different offering to other restaurants in the area, and he says the initial reaction from customers has been very positive since its opening.

Mr Allaoui has invested £120,000 in the new restaurant, with the kitchen costing £50,000 alone.

The 45-year-old said: "It is going really well, people are really pleased and are saying it is just what Bolton needs.

"People are looking for something different, they can try a lot of different, fresh dishes across the Mediterranean instead of just microwaved foods."

The restaurant has also created 14 new full and part time jobs, and it is hoped that it could expand.

Mr Allaoui said: "We are testing out this concept, and hopefully we can expand and create more restaurants elsewhere in the future."

He originally moved to Bolton from Morocco in 1994, and he has called the town his home ever since.

He says the town centre has received some unfair associations with violence related to its night time economy, and hopes the restaurant will help to increase footfall and regenerate the area.

Mr Allaoui said: "Bolton has suffered the same as any other town due to the recession. The council has started talking to businesses and realising that things need to change.

"People say there is violence around this area, but I don't think it is worse than anywhere else. Yes there are a few drunk people, but it is no different to other places.

"We hope with our new restaurant that we can bring people into the town centre and help improve it."

The business received support from Bolton Council, being awarded a grant for grant for fixtures, fittings and equipment.

Cllr Ebrahim Adia executive cabinet member for regeneration for Bolton Council, said: “Increasing footfall and bringing new businesses into the town centre is one of our key priorities and it’s great that the grants scheme is helping with the success of this.

“It’s fantastic to see that Mouloud, who runs the well-established, successful restaurant Ciao Napoli, is committed to Bolton and has opened up Tapaz.

“The restaurant adds a different dimension to Bradshawgate. It sells good quality food at reasonable prices and offers a contemporary, relaxed family friendly dining option for residents and visitors.”