A BURGER chain restaurant which is taking over two empty units in Festival Place is set to open in December, the Gazette understands.

Five Guys is preparing to open its newest venue in the shopping centre next month and has now removed the coverings on the windows revealing the interior for the first time.

Basingstoke Gazette:

The American burger chain is taking over the former Gourmet Burger Kitchen (GBK) unit which closed in September and the unit previously occupied by the Sushi Maki, which closed in February.

Work on the refit is continuing this week as the restaurant prepares to open to the public in December.

An exact date has not yet been confirmed; however, the Gazette understands it is opening before Christmas.

Famed for its fresh approach to fast food, the chain cooks all its food to order, including its popular fries cooked in peanut oil.

It offers burgers and hot dogs with as many free toppings as you want, as well as milkshakes with mix-ins such as bacon.

A licensing application submitted to Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council asked for permission for the restaurant to open Sundays to Wednesdays 8am to 11.30pm and Thursdays to Saturdays from 8am to 12.30am.

Both Festival Place and Five Guys have been asked for further details with regards to the opening.