THE restaurant boom in St Albans continues apace with news of a new venue in The Maltings offering contemporary cuisine with the promise of unrivalled service.

Vega, which is set to open shortly in the premises vacated more than three years ago by Fat Sam's diner, is the brainchild of St Albans couple Claudette and Jacques Benabid.

The couple ran Pierre Victoire in Hatfield Road several years ago and have recently completed a sabbatical following the birth of their twin sons.

Mrs Benabid said: "We had a break but we feel the time is right now to open this restaurant.

"St Albans is well known now for its good quality restaurants but we think we will be offering something that is unique.

"The cuisine is Mediterranean-influenced and will be very affordable a couple could easily come and enjoy a meal for less than £30."

Families are also going to be made very welcome with Mrs Benabid promising that children will not be frowned upon.

"We recently tried to take the twins into a few restaurants and were flatly refused but that will not be the case here," she said.

Mr and Mrs Benabid and business partner Patrick Lafont are hoping Vega will be the first in a new chain of restaurants and so will be taking a backseat when the first restaurant opens.

Kitchen manager and head chef Phil Gregg believes the concept of good service coupled with fresh, modern food and sleek and comfortable surroundings will pay off.

Mr Gregg said: "The emphasis will be very much on service.

"Waiting staff are being employed first and foremost to ensure our customers are enjoying themselves.

"Obviously they are there to serve food and drinks but we are keen to ensure that everyone who comes in is treated well."

Mr Gregg said the imminent arrival of Carluccio's and Wagamama in Christopher Place, St Albans, influenced the decision to site Vega in the city. "St Albans is becoming a haven for good food and Vega can only add to that."

Mr Gregg is also confident Vega will establish itself on a site that has traditionally been associated with failed restaurants. Both Deep Pan Pizza and Fat Sam's have abandoned the premises in recent years, but Mr Gregg believes Vega has what it takes to become a success.

"Our message is just come and try us," he said.