Iconic American diner restaurant Zaks turns 40

40 people attended Zaks 40th birthday party. (Image: Archant)

A couple who had one of their first dates at Zaks iconic Norwich diner returned to help the restaurant chain celebrate 40 years in the business.

Simon and Hayley Dalley had one of their first dates at Zaks and even held their wedding reception at the Waterside restaurant in the city in June 2015.

They were among 40 people who went to a party at Zaks' Mousehold diner, also Norwich, to celebrate 40 years since the restaurant started selling its chargrilled burgers, wrapped in tin foil, out of a caravan in 1976.

Over the past decades the business has expanded with four restaurants in Norwich, Thetford and Poringland.

The cake made for Zaks 40th birthday party. (Image: Archant)

Chris Carr, chief operating officer, said: 'It's amazing to think Zaks has been around this long, but it really wouldn't have been possible without the continued support of the people who matter most to us – our customers.

'We love being part of the neighbourhoods we serve and are looking forward to being part of family life across the county for many years to come.'

The event involved speeches, the launch of special Zaks balloons and the cutting of a cake, iced to look like a burger.

In the run up to the event, Zaks held a number of competitions and asked customers on social media to send in their memories of the restaurant over the past 40 years.

Mr and Mrs Dalley, of East Harling, were two who got in touch to tell Zaks about their fond memories of the American diner.

Mrs Dalley said: 'I feel like part of a family being here today. I feel really welcome in celebrating something really special.'

For the couple Zaks has been a big part of their relationship, Mr Dalley even proposed in the restaurant.

Now they are expecting their first child. Mrs Dalley said: 'We keep joking that we'll call it Zak.'

Have you got a story about a successful local business? Email business editor Mark Shields at mark.shields@archant.co.uk