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New bar and cafe opens its doors after transformation of former south Essex bank

A NEW cafe and bar has opened its doors after bosses completed the transformation of a former bank in Rayleigh to create a 'home from home' venue. Manzano Lounge was opened by the Loungers Plc group on Wednesday night after the old Barclays bank was overhauled. The new business features heavily patterned wallpapers, tiling, and stripped wooden floors alongside oversized vintage sofas, upholstered lounge chairs, artwork and statement wall and pendant lighting. Exciting - A busy opening night at Manzano Lounge (Image: Teri Pengilley) Described as a home from home, Manzano Lounge will cater for all tastes throughout the day with a varied and innovative all-day menu. The good news comes after a series of blows for Rayleigh High Street following the announcement that two more banks and the longstanding Factory Shop would close. However, councillors have been quick to highlight the likes of Manzano Lounge and other cafes and restaurants bringing a new, fresh offering to the High Street. Yummy - Some of the food at the restaurant (Image: Teri Pengilley) John English, head of community at Loungers, said: 'We are delighted to have opened the doors of Manzano Lounge. 'Our Lounges strive to put community at the heart of hospitality and our teams always go the extra mile to make a difference. 'They are actively encouraged to connect with their communities by working with local groups, charities, organisations, and businesses that are at the heart of the fabric of local life. 'We are very much looking forward to welcoming local residents to Manzano Lounge.' Quirky - The café and bar features heavily patterned wallpapers (Image: Teri Pengilley) New - It has been described as a real home-from-home (Image: Teri Pengilley) The cafe and bar will serve a varied all-day menu, including breakfast, tapas, salads, burgers, and buttermilk fried chicken. It will cater for all dietary requirements with separate menus for vegan and gluten-free options. Families are welcomed with a selection of games, books, colouring pencils, and iPads. There are also high chairs and baby-changing facilities available. In a bid to give back to the community, Manzano Lounge has partnered with Havens hospices. The team at Manzano Lounge will donate 50p from every burger and 20p from each coffee sold in the first month to the charity.