FOODIES are set to get their first bite of the Big Apple when a burger chain restaurant opens its doors as the latest addition to a multi-million pound leisure development.

The American-inspired NYC Bar & Grill will welcome its first customers to the eatery in Darlington’s Feethams complex for its opening night tonight (September 7).

The restaurant, which offers a menu including deep-fried Oreos and peanut butter-smothered fries, will occupy a void left at the site after burger outlet Purple Pig failed to open at Feethams.

Urban & Civic – the development company behind the year-old complex – confirmed that NYC bar & Grill’s arrival would create up to 30 jobs after an agreement was met in May to establish the chain’s first restaurant in the North-East.

Lee Edwards, founder of NYC Bar & Grill, said: “This will be our fifth restaurant to open in the country and we’re sure Darlington will be just as receptive to our food and brilliant service like our customers across our other locations.

“We’re thrilled to be part of Feethams’ offering and look forward to welcoming many hungry guests.”

Simon Hawkins, development director at Feethams, added: “Our aim is to continually develop and expand in order to further cement our position as a dining and entertainment hotspot, so that Darlington always has great options to enjoy for days and evenings out. 

“NYC Bar & Grill is a fantastic addition to Feethams and I’d like to wish Lee and the team all the success for the opening and its future here in Darlington.”