A POPULAR vegetarian restaurant, formerly known as Zoukinis of Westbourne, will reopen its doors today (MAY14) under the new name of Amala - Bournemouth's new vegan restaurant.

Situated in Seamoor Road, Zoukinis closed five weeks ago for a major refurbishment. Amala will be open from 11am to 11pm today serving plant-based foods.

Restaurant manager Justina Schmidt, said the new menu included a selection of raw foods, such as noodles with special Teriyaki sauce and sesame seeds, Balinese-style salads, a vegan cheeseboard and vegan wines.

She said: "Most of our food is organic and locally sourced. Our chef also makes the most amazing cheesecake - you just won't believe that it isn't made with dairy products.

“We also have a dehydrator which is a special technique to keep the food alive because it is so much better for our bodies."

Owner Jacqueline Kelly, known as Kelly to her customers, explained that after eight years of trading as Zoukinis, she wanted a new start.

"It is what we call 'conscious food'. We want to inspire people to start thinking about the planet and to start thinking about what they are eating."

Kelly added: "I'm very excited as it is the start of a new era. We have had to overcome some challenges over the past five weeks, and we have been working 10 to 12 hour days, but it will be worth it.

"I went to Bali to get inspiration for it all - so it is very green and fresh. I wanted to create a sense of calm. Everything will be biodegradable and eco-friendly.

"People won't recognise the place - although there is still a bit of Zoukinis left - parts of the restaurant have been recycled and reused - I haven't thrown anything away and we still have our Zoukinis garden.”

Speaking a few days ahead of the relaunch, Kelly said she had already taken lots of bookings.

“We have had lots of interest for our opening night which is wonderful."

Amala will be open 11am to 11pm Wednesday to Sunday.