THE owner of a new restaurant and bar said he is excited to be launching “something different”.

Seasons, in East Street, Brighton, is not your typical Chinese restaurant.

Spread over three floors, the modern à-la-carte venue has capacity for 100 diners as well as two private rooms with karaoke facilities for parties.

Director Jason Hong said: “We are trying to build up something different to what is already offered locally.

“Parties are welcome as we have two great spaces which are private dining areas, with karaoke too.

“We have a cocktail bar which is open to the public as well, so people are free to come in, have a drink and maybe have some food upstairs after if they feel like it.”

On the ground floor, the spacious bar area is also available for large parties to hire and Seasons has a late licence until 3am.

Diners can choose dishes from different three-course “banquet” menus, with vegetarian options available and a Szechwan menu, for less than £30 per head.

Jason said: “We serve traditional Chinese food, but with a twist.

“It’s a fusion of the modern and the traditional, and we pride ourselves on our unique dishes, combined with an ethos of top-level service.

“Our presentation is more contemporary and we have imported different styles of plates for different dishes.

“Soon we also have plans to introduce a very good Chinese wine.”

Like the food, the design of the restaurant’s interior is a fusion of the traditional and the modern, with decorative Chinese artwork and an open kitchen.

Jason said he wants Seasons to offer more than just fine dining, and he is committed to community engagement.

He said: “At the same time as running the restaurant, we are working with the local Chinese community to try to organise some workshops to teach people more about Chinese culture, food and therapies.

“We want to providing a platform for dialogue and learning on the topic.

“We would also like to work with hospitality students at the University of Brighton to help them gain work experience or internships.

“We need more work opportunities for residents and we want to make a positive contribution to the city.”

At the opening reception for the restaurant on Sunday, traditional Chinese dancers paraded a dragon into the street, and were accompanied by drummers.

Jason said there will be more entertainment for Chinese New Year on Saturday, January 25.

He said: “We will have another show on Chinese New Year, with a special set menu.

“We are really excited.”