CUSTOMER service and a warm reception are so ingrained at a town centre restaurant it draws in new members of staff.

Mo Oueslati used to visit the Coconut Bar and Kitchen as a customer but became so enchanted by the atmosphere he decided to apply for a job.

"I've worked in a lot of places and I've been here for three months," said the restaurant manager.

"I visited here as a customer a couple of times and I saw the service and the warm welcome and the way they treated people "I thought I could do this and do well.

"I already feel like part of the family.

"We couldn't have the bar without the restaurant and the restaurant depends on the bar. The two support each other."

The restaurant, which specialises in Asian cuisine just celebrated three years based at St Mary's Butts.

"We like to give people the whole experience," continued Mr Oueslati.

"It's not like a chain, we can do things our own way.

"We really empathise with our customers."

The restaurant and bar has now been nominated and is in with a chance of winning an award at the Reading Retail Awards later this year.

The venue has been put forward for the Restaurant of the Year award after catching a customer's eye.

It was nominated for the delicious food, nice atmosphere and excellent service.

Nominations are open until July 10. Visit www.readingretailawards.co.uk to find out how to nominate your business heroes.

Categories include retailer of the year, promotional initiative of the year, independent retailer of the year, multiple retailer of the year, 'shooting star', manager of the year, innovation in the marketplace, sustainability in retail, Health, Beauty and Well-being, Cafes, Coffee and Lunch, restaurant of the year, service with a smile, and your Favourite Shop.