A RESTAURANT, claiming to be “Newport’s first Yemeni restaurant” has opened its doors to customers in the city centre.

Last month, the Argus reported that the city would soon be welcoming Balqis Restaurant – offering diners in the city something a little different.

According to the sign placed on the shopfront while pre-opening work was carried out – it is Newport’s first restaurant dedicated to the cuisine of Yemen.

As such, the menu offers a range of dishes popular in the Middle East – such as Mandi and Haneeth.

While shutters were down in the build-up to the opening of the restaurant, located at 60 Commercial Street, all has since been revealed.

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Earlier this month, doors were opened for the very first time, and customers were welcomed inside.

Initially, it is believed that a slightly smaller menu was being served, with further items being brought in soon.

Commenting on the opening, the owners of Balqis said: “Today we have opened a new Yemeni restaurant in Newport, hoping to bring to you the beautiful Yemeni culture as well as the delicious Yemeni dishes.

“We would like to thank every single person who visited us today and was part of a new beginning in our community.

“We hope you all have enjoyed the service and the food. Looking forward for your next visit as there will be more dishes introduced to you soon.

“Thank you for all your kind feedback and the continued support.”

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What was here before?

Prior to the opening of the restaurant, the unit has seen a number of different tenants over the years.

Most recently, it was home to Nipa Hut, a Filipino and Chinese restaurant – though it is not known when this closed.

Prior to that, the site hosted Coffee & Crumbs, a local coffee shop.

This had vacated the unit by June 2019.

Earlier still, New Moon Chinese Restaurant was situated here, but this was replaced by the coffee shop at some point between 2014 and 2015.

Balqis Restaurant can be found at 60 Commercial Street in Newport city centre.