Malta is set to net its first Ocean Basket restaurant in the coming weeks, with the opening of this popular franchise in the north of the island in spring 2015.

Ocean Basket, a restaurant chain that boasts 191 restaurants in 12 other territories around the world, is famed for its casual approach to seafood dining.

Born in South Africa in 1995, the brand has since been catapulted onto the international stage, and has gained a global following thanks to its delicious menu, generous portions and commitment to good value.

Local company OB Operations has acquired the master franchise rights for the Maltese territory.One of the directors,Rebecca Calleja,explained:"The style of Ocean Basket will suit Malta perfectly. It is a great match for our Mediterranean diet, as well as our casual approach to dining out with friends and family. I believe it is going to be a big hit."

The 'sharing' side of Ocean Basket is expected to be particularly popular; the menu includes a vast variety of seafood platters, sushi platters, combos and special dishes for children. Individual dishes, such as the three-way calamari and village salad will also prove to be appealing with the wider audience.

Commenting on the appointment of Malta's master franchisee, Ocean Basket's CEO, Grace Harding, said: "We are thrilled with this move to Malta. Our aim is to keep growing our global presence and to achieve our goal of being the most loved family seafood restaurant in the world".

"Our focus has always been scrumptious seafood, a welcoming environment and generosity to boot. We boldly offer our consumers a delicious, abundant meal at an affordable price, and thatwill always remain at the core of the Ocean Basket brand. We are sure it will be very well received in Malta, as it has been elsewhere around the globe," Ms Harding says.

Ocean Basket Malta is currently recruiting people to join its team ahead of the restaurant's opening later this year. Interested candidates are invited to send their CV and a covering letter to [email protected]