A year ago it was a book shop over three floors, today it is a buzzing restaurant serving more than 100 people a day.

Wagamama in Earl Street, Maidstone, celebrated its first anniversary in the County Town this week beginning of Nov the launch of its new winter menu.

The Japanese restaurant, which employs 30 staff, is not in a listed building, but was subject to a number of restrictions during the renovation work to turn it from the Waterstone’s book store into the minimalist restaurant.

It is now run by manager Ash Field, with head chef Sonny Obakpolor.

Mr Field said: “Wagamama has a strong following in Kent, and we cannot believe how quickly this last year has gone.”

Mr Obakpolor added: “The new menu is so much fun to cook, my personal favourite dish is the new banana katsu.”