LEIGH Broadway’s newest restaurant is already proving a huge hit after undergoing a refurbishment. Under new management, the former “Kilkies” has been rebranded as Sand Bar - reflecting the original name of the restaurant – and the Echo’s Ethan Banks visited the site to see what is on offer.

As I stepped inside the newly refurbished seafood restaurant and bar, you cannot fail to notice the calm, relaxing and luxurious feel.

Echo: Venue - the Sand BarVenue - the Sand Bar (Image: Newsquest)

The waiter welcomed me with open arms, and the smell of fresh battered fish made me eager for him to whisk me to the luxurious-feeling leather seat at my table.

Echo: View - from my table with the bar to my leftView - from my table with the bar to my left (Image: Newsquest)

What I noticed on the wall to my right was some really cool-looking artwork of some soul greats, including the late Aretha Franklin.

Echo: Nice touch - artworkNice touch - artwork (Image: Newsquest)

To my left was the bar, which serves cocktails, such as espresso martini and a hugo spritz.

There is so much on offer at the Sand Bar – from beef wellington with creamy mash and red wine jus, to prawn and monk fish curry with steamed rice, I was spoilt for choice.

However, I opted for the traditional haddock fish covered in crispy golden beer batter and chunky, fluffy chips for £18.

One thing that left me surprised is that there are no main meals for under £15; the cheapest is the prawn and monk fish curry, and the grilled pork chop with wild mushroom cream sauce, both of which are £16.95.

Given this was the most expensive fish and chips I had ever bought, I had high expectations in terms of portion size, quality and presentation.

While I was waiting for my food to arrive, I noticed just how passionate the team are about keeping the venue clean at all times because when some guests left, they were quick to head to the table to make it ready for the next group of diners.

When the dish arrived, I was left shocked by how big the haddock was – I could not see the chips because it took up near enough the whole plate.

Echo: Beautiful - the presentation of the fish and chipsBeautiful - the presentation of the fish and chips (Image: Newsquest)

A lemon slice and cress topped off the fish, and a pot of creamy tartare sauce was also on the plate for something to dip it into.

Echo: Yummy - the fishYummy - the fish (Image: Newsquest)

The fish and chips were piping hot, and I simply could not fault it at all.

Echo: Recommend - Echo reporter Ethan Banks at the Sand BarRecommend - Echo reporter Ethan Banks at the Sand Bar (Image: Newsquest)

The perfect food and the relaxing vibe of the Sand Bar proves why the Sand Bar cannot be missed.