FARNHAM’S latest eatery, Thai restaurant Giggling Squid, opened its doors in Castle Street this week following a comprehensive refurbishment of the Grade II listed building.

The great and good of Farnham enjoyed bubbles, Thai beer and canapes aplenty at a glitzy launch party on Wednesday night, followed by the restaurant’s full opening on Thursday.

It marks Giggling Squid founders Pranee Laurillard and her husband Andrew’s 20th restaurant since launching their first premises in Brighton a decade ago - named after the nickname of one of their three children.

The building at in Castle Street, which previously housed The Colony Chinese restaurant and forms part of the former Castle Theatre, is thought to date back to the 16th century and underwent extensive building works prior to its reopening this week.

Many of its original wooden beams and floor boards have been exposed, while period features and open fireplaces are also celebrated throughout the premises’ two floors.

This is combined with reclaimed mirrors and hand-crafted furniture, as well as driftwood artwork and intricately woven flowered baskets handmade by co-founder Pranee.

The 140-cover restaurant offers both a lunch time Thai tapas menu and a separate dinner menu, as well as ae takeaway menu, each featuring a varied selection of seafood, meat, curry, noodle and stir fry options.

Families can also take advantage of the ‘Little Tapas for Little People’ menu, while there is also a semi-private room, available to book, for up to six people.

Giggling Squid Farnham is open Monday to Thursday (midday till 10pm), Friday and Saturday (midday till 10.30pm) and Sunday (midday to 9.30pm). For more information visit the website www.gigglingsquid.com.