AN ARMY staff sergeant is opening a new Caribbean restaurant in Andover.

Dwayn Mathurin, who has been serving British Army since 2002, said he decided to open his restaurant Island Grill & Lounge in Andover because of his passion for cooking and love for the town.

“Andover, to me, is now my hometown,” Dwayn told the Advertiser.

“I have a passion for cooking, so I thought let me use my skill that I'm really good at to put a smile on people's faces. And good food makes people smile”

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Andover Advertiser: New Andover restaurant Island Grill & LoungeNew Andover restaurant Island Grill & Lounge (Image: Contributed)

Island Grill & Lounge is opening at Unit 3 The Mall in Bridge Street.

It had a soft opening on Friday, March 22, before officially opening on Saturday, March 23.

Dwayn, who is originally from Saint Lucia, is a staff sergeant of British Army and has been living in Tidworth since 2008.

He decided to open the restaurant as he is leaving the Army after 23 years.

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He said Island Grill & Lounge aims to serve a unique Bob Marley cocktail along with authentic Caribbean cuisine.

“We want to offer some unique Caribbean dishes,” said Dwayn, who is planning to employ three to four members of staff.