A CHESTER city centre restaurant has had to delay its official opening date due to Covid.

Artezzan on Pepper street was due to open its doors officially on Monday, June 21, but received notification of a positive Covid case.

The new Mediterranean-inspired restaurant and bar, which takes the spot of the former Las Iguanas site, will now be opening on July 1.

A notice on the front of the restaurant says: "It is with great regret that we have had to close our doors before we officially opened due to a positive Covid case.

"Our main priority is keeping our team and guests safe during the pandemic and we will reopen on July 1, when we look forward to giving you our Artezzan welcome."

People with enquiries are urged to contact the restaurant by email on chester@artezzan.com or by calling 01244 506406.

The Artezzan menu combines classic dishes from Italy, Spain, France and Greece, and includes Spanish pinchos, homemade pizzas and pastas, grilled meats and seafood, and a wide selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes.

Artezzan in Chester will be the first 'flagship' premises for the new brand.

Many Chester city centre restaurants and bars have had to close in recent days temporarily due to Covid cases among team members, or staff being in contact with someone who later tested positive for coronavirus.