A STRETFORD man who has worked under some of the world’s top chefs is opening his first restaurant in Urmston later this week.

Dirty Bird BBQ on Flixton Road was set to swing open their doors on Friday despite the coronavirus crisis but new lockdown measures mean that Gabe Lea will be offering their unique American food as a takeaway.

The business started as a takeaway through boredom when Gabe was placed on furlough and wanted an outlet for his passion to be born.

Among the highlights of their food will include 17 hour smoked brisket and a hot food challenge with its own wall of fame but customers will be also able to enjoy the bourbon bar when customers can return to eating in when lockdown restrictions are eased.

Gabe has worked with Aiden Burns, Simon Rimmer, Lisa Allen at Northcote and also picked up great experience in Le Manoire with Raymond Blanc.

He climbed his way through the ranks and became the youngest head chef at George’s, Ryan Giggs' restaurant at just 21.

He said: “It has been a testing time with the coronavirus lockdown but we are excited about opening as a takeaway.

“The takeaway will be the bread and butter of our business in the meantime.

“I am also a bit nervous as well and it is something I have wanted to do since I was a kid so I am realising a life-long dream to own my own restaurant.

“My background is in fine-dining and this means I could dabble and maybe go back to that in the future.

“This is all home food and the customers and clientele have liked what they have seen and have been overwhelmed by the support of friends and family.

“It is different to average burger places as we have ice cream sandwiches and an American theme.

“I have learned a lot from people such as Raymond Blanc who taught me about man management and others such as Lisa Allen who told me about what flavours work with each food.”