AN award winning chef has praised the people of Darlington for the success of his Greek restaurant.

Georgios Latousakis opened Santorini on the town’s Tubwell Row just over a year ago.

The chef and his family, wife Matina and his two children, moved to Darlington three years ago, following a career which has seen him work in five star hotels across Europe and Asia.

“When I came to Darlington I fell in love with the town, which is why I decided to open up Santorini and it’s been the best decision I have made” he said.

“Darlington is certainly on the rise and the people are so friendly.”

The chef has worked in some of the world’s best restaurants, including a three star Michelin French restaurant in London, and was also named best foreign chef in Beijing for three years in a row.

Mr Latousakis said he is now looking to increase staff numbers at his restaurant.

“I treat every single customer the best I can, cooking with fresh, local products and always serving with a smile.

“Over this last year, we have had many people becoming regulars to the restaurant and that’s how I really know I’m doing something right.”