On Wednesday last week (April 15) a spokesperson from Frankie & Benny’s confirmed that the branch in The Brewery had closed its doors for good.

Replying to a post on the Romford Recorder‘s Facebook page, readers have had their say on what they would like to replace it.

The return of Outback Steakhouse, an American-run, Australian-themed restaurant chain which previously had a branch in The Brewery, appeared to be the most popular choice amongst locals.

Corinthian Mcvitie’s comment – “bring back an outback style restaurant” – received 145 likes and several comments agreeing with her.

Tomi Man replied: “Bring back Outback full stop. That onion bloomee was insane.”

One of Outback Steakhouse’s menu items was the ‘bloomin’ onion’, where a whole onion split into sections and deep fried.

Paul Adams also suggested bringing back the Aussie-themed restaurant and his comment attracted 30 likes.

Bonnie Cook, Colin Smith, Heidi Porter and Liam Smith also commented separately in favour of Outback Steakhouse’s return.

The chain closed all of it’s UK-based branches in 2011 but is still in operation across the USA.

Aleksandra Czerniawska commented: “Ohhhh some good Polish restaurants. 

“I would love it and English people love Polish food.”

Her comment was liked 45 times and several people replied to her in agreement.

Harry Huseyin suggested the space should be filled with a pie and mash shop whilst Trish Johnson hopes for a “proper authentic Caribbean”.

Slim Chickens was also a popular suggestion with Rhys Smith, Michelle McDermott and Nikki Littlewood all commenting in favour.

Some readers suggested the vacant restaurant space shouldn’t be used as a food spot at all.

Simon Faulkner said: “A comedy club would be brilliant.”

Gill Portch wrote: “They could turn it into a NHS hub they have recently done this up north and it’s a game changer.”

Vernon Anastasia commented: “Turn it into youth centre, where kids can enjoy life without fear of knife crime.

“And offer all year groups free education every day after school and all day Saturday Sunday.

“And free boxing, MM (mixed martial) Arts class for boys, men, and mother and daughter groups to learn how to defend themself and keep safe.”

Other people suggested a live music venue and some are hoping for a restaurant with live entertainment.

Louise Vail suggested a Greek restaurant with “dancing” and “plate smashing”.

With a similar idea, Lisa Bojarczyk proposed a “proper Mamma Mia Greek plate smashing restaurant”.

Multiple people requested a restaurant with gluten free options.

Collette Shuttleworth said: “Anything that gives the option of gluten free would be nice”.

Lisa Wyatt added: “A good restaurant that offers a wide range of gluten free food would be good”.

Soon after Frankie & Benny’s was confirmed to be closed for good, a spokesperson from Toby Carvery also said its branch in The Brewery will shut permanently on May 10.

Meanwhile, the Nando’s branch in the shopping centre is shut for a refurbishment.

Courtesy of Romford Recorder | Things to do