A new restaurant, which aims to combine two very different dining traditions, has vowed to offer an alternative to “bland” eateries.

Sharmila Bholanuth, 43, welcomed the first customers to La Nostra restaurant in High Street, Epping,High Street, Epping, last Friday.

The business offers traditional British tea room fare, while simultaneously serving classic rustic Italian.

Despite opening in a crowded and volatile market, Ms Bholanuth believes the combination of two much-loved styles in a comfortable, friendly setting will set La Nostra apart.

She said: “I think Epping needs something like La Nostra.

“There are all these bland restaurants that are like some kind of robotic machine.

“Something small, cosy and authentic is something that Epping can use."

Ms Bholanuth said service have a personal touch, with chefs talking to customers about their preferences and making sure everyone is valued equally.

“A customer buying a cup of tea will be valued the same as a customer buying a bottle of champagne”, she said.

“I have lived and travelled all around the world and the places that I would go back to over and over again are the places that gave customers great service and great food.”