A brand-new snack bar has opened in Swindon after two neighbours became friends and decided that its introduction would be great for the area.

Ali Sari, 42, and Debbie Mifsud, 60, have been neighbours for five years since the latter moved in next door to the former’s kebab shop.

“I was a regular customer in the kebab shop and from there I became good friends with Ali,” said Debbie, the manager of the new bar.

The new snack bar’s location had been the site of a hairdressers up until the Covid lockdowns of 2020, and when the area became vacated, the idea was born.

The new café, known as Zeyno’s Snack Bar, is located in the Liden Centre and offers customers a wide range of food and drinks including rolls, paninis, cakes and pastries.

Since opening on Saturday, October 29, the snack bar has had a great response from the local residents, and the pair of friends are delighted with the reaction.

Swindon Advertiser: The modern interior of Zeyno's Snack Bar in Liden VillageThe modern interior of Zeyno's Snack Bar in Liden Village (Image: Debbie Mifsud)

“Business is gradually building, and people are coming in and giving really nice feedback on the food and commenting on how clean the place is,” said Debbie.

Even the professionals were impressed; it was awarded a top rating of five stars for its food hygiene by the Food Standards Agency on Monday.

This makes the recent addition to Swindon’s eateries one of the highest rated for hygiene.

Zeyno's hopes to make a real impact in the area and were quick to assert the importance of supporting smaller eateries such as their new shop.

“It is great to support your local businesses and help us stay here,” concluded Debbie.

Zeyno’s Snack Bar is open on Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm, and on Saturdays the eatery runs from 8am to the earlier closing time of 2pm.