Inside Jade Palace at Rossett's former Griffin Inn pub

The village pub was a popular local fixture for years before closing its doors, leaving many residents wondering what the future held for one of the area's best-known landmarks.

Since then, we have followed the story closely, reporting on the building being put up for sale before plans were approved to transform it into a Chinese restaurant.

Whenever an established pub changes use, there is often concern that some of its character could be lost forever.

That's why I was particularly keen to see what had become of The Griffin when I was invited inside following its opening.

The pub feel remains (Image: Newsquest)

Walking through the doors of Jade Palace for the first time, I quickly realised those fears were unfounded.

Despite the transformation, the owners have somehow managed to preserve much of the building's pub character while creating a restaurant that feels welcoming.

The first thing that hit me was the smell.

As soon as I stepped inside, the aroma of freshly prepared food filled the air and immediately made me hungry.

Looking around, it was clear a huge amount of thought had gone into the refurbishment.

The familiar feel of the former pub remains, but it now sits comfortably alongside décor that gives the venue an entirely new identity.

The bar remains, keeping the character (Image: Newsquest)

I was greeted by staff who were eager to explain the vision behind the new venture.

They told me their goal is simple: to make sure every customer leaves happy and wanting to come back.

The team said they are working hard to perfect every aspect of the customer experience and ensure each visit is one to remember.

They also revealed that they were the same people behind the popular Sun Wah takeaway, a name that will already be familiar to many people in the area.

However, they have since left the takeaway and are no longer connected with it.

Some modern touches have been added (Image: Newsquest)

According to the team, the loyal support they received from customers at Sun Wah gave them the encouragement and confidence to take the next step and open a full restaurant.

Of course, no first visit would be complete without trying some of the food.

I opted for the BBQ ribs starter after staff explained they had been made in-house that very day.

I had to try the BBQ ribs and they did not disappoint (Image: Newsquest)

When the dish arrived, I immediately knew this wasn't going to be an ordinary starter.

The ribs were served in a small pan with a tea light candle underneath, keeping both the meat and the sauce warm while I ate.

It was a simple touch, but one that showed the attention to detail the restaurant is striving for.

And the ribs themselves?

Honestly, they were the best ribs I have ever tasted.

Tender, packed with flavour and coated in a rich, sticky sauce, they were outstanding from the first bite to the last.

The warming candle meant every mouthful was just as enjoyable as the first.

These signs are on the bar (Image: Newsquest)

Having followed The Griffin's journey from closure, sale and redevelopment to opening day, it was remarkable to see the building begin a new chapter.

The challenge facing the owners was always going to be finding a way to respect the history of a well-loved village pub while creating something new.

After my first visit, I left feeling they may have achieved exactly that.

The Griffin Inn is no longer the pub that many people remember, but the character of the building remains very much alive.

Combined with passionate staff, ambitious owners and some exceptional food, it feels like Rossett may have gained something special.

Jade Palace is now open, and you can check their Facebook page for regular updates on their opening times.