The newly opened Italian restaurant, Sul-Mare, has experienced a remarkable response since its trial services began on January 2, 2024. Located in the transformed former Galley Fisheries chip shop on Leysdown Road, the establishment has quickly drawn attention and customers, even before its grand opening event held on the evening of January 10.
Owner Al Jabir Miah expressed his surprise at the high volume of customers, stating, “We opened in January to give the staff some time to get up to my standards, but it’s been super busy already.” With holidaymakers expected to visit the seaside village soon, Miah joked about the challenges that might arise from the anticipated influx.
During the grand opening, attended by around 40 guests, including local officials and members of the community, Miah highlighted the support from the public. “The response we got from everyone is amazing, really,” he noted. The evening showcased the restaurant’s offerings and celebrated the hard work of those involved in the £200,000 renovation project.
Miah, who has over 26 years of experience in the hospitality industry, previously managed The Dining Room on Sheppey. He has a wealth of experience in restaurant management, having provided consultancy services to help others in the industry enhance their operations. His recent project involved assisting his long-time friend, Naz Chowdhury, in transforming a property into an award-winning Indian fine dining venue.
The journey to opening Sul-Mare began two years ago when Miah’s landlord offered him the opportunity to take on the building located at No.1 Leysdown Road, where he resides. After a year of extensive renovations, Miah is pleased with the outcome and the restaurant’s warm reception. “It’s a big opening night. Everyone we invited is here, and they’re enjoying the food,” he remarked, acknowledging the contributions of builders, carpenters, and electricians who facilitated the transformation.
His wife, Alona Gorbunova, expressed her surprise at the restaurant’s success during the trial period, thanking the community for their support. “We have been so warmly welcomed onto Sheppey, and this is our way of giving back,” she said. Gorbunova emphasized the restaurant’s goal: to create a family-friendly atmosphere where patrons can relax and enjoy quality meals.
Sul-Mare has employed nine staff members, including head chef Mario Iovino, originally from Naples, Italy. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, pastas, and pizzas, aiming to provide authentic Italian cuisine to the local community.
As the restaurant continues to attract diners, Miah is optimistic about the future. With the support of the community and an experienced team, Sul-Mare appears poised to make a significant impact in the culinary landscape of Sheppey.
