A new gastropub replacing a former Wetherspoons in Romford town centre has opened today as part of a "soft launch".

Ivy Tree, in South Street, opened today (August 8) at 12pm, owner Remzi Erdogan confirmed, after previous delays due to "technical issues".

However, Remzi stressed that this is a "soft launch" with the official grand opening expected within two weeks.

This means that for the remainder of this week and for next week, the new pub will open at midday - instead of serving breakfast like they eventually hope to do - as well as not running at full capacity.

A CGI showing the design of the Ivy Tree (Image: Akart Designs)

The "step-by-step" approach taken to opening is so they can start serving customers in spite of previous delays, the pub owner says.

Ivy Tree's original launch in April was pushed back due to issues with its naming rights, and the opening was again delayed last month.

Remzi said that after a "long journey" he is "very excited" to finally be bringing the new venue to Romford. 

He said: "It's very exciting that people are asking about it, and coming to take pictures - people's reactions make me more excited."

The owner also wanted to reassure potential new customers that the gastropub will serve food and drink at "Romford prices".

READ MORE: Ivy Tree, South Street, Romford: See how gastropub could look

He said: "There's nothing similar in Romford [at the moment].

"We are bringing something with the feel of Mayfair but with Romford prices."

Ivy Tree has a glitzy art deco feel, with neon signs on the walls reading 'The Ivy Tree' and 'You're looking gorgeous today', and eventually hopes to host live music and DJs.

The venue used to be The World's Inn Wetherspoons, which closed in April 2023.