A NEW £500,000 dessert restaurant is opening in the town centre today.

The Haute Dolci franchise is opening in Bradshawgate bringing a luxury dessert experience to the town.

Mohammed Bhuta from Daubhil, a self-confessed life-long dessert fan, is heading up the operations with the help of his sister Safiya.

Mr Bhuta said: "I've been into desserts since I was a kid and I have always wanted to open one. My sister is an entrepreneur ­— she approached me and said 'there's an opportunity to open a franchise'."

Haute Dolci aims to provide luxury for its customers, there are a huge 72 different desserts on its menu to try in the plush surroundings or even the private dining area.

Mr Bhuta's personal favourite is white chocolate and raspberry pancakes.

Customers will find a wide variety of waffles, pancakes and ice creams with lots of sweet and fruity toppings to accompany them.

People lucky enough to find gold keys hidden around Bolton have been able to enjoy the treats already but the dessert experience opens to the public today.

It will open noon-11pm, Sunday-Thursday and noon-1am, Friday-Saturday. Desserts start at £6.