AN AWARD-WINNING Hampshire pie shop has opened a new branch in Southampton.

Pie, mash and comic book shop, Piecaramba!, has thrown open its doors in Carlton Place.

The new premises is spread over two floors, giving the business the opportunity to cater to more customers, as well as providing a function area for private parties and events.

The brainchild of Rob Litchfield and Phil Linssen, two men passionate about pie and pop culture.

The new restaurant is the company’s second in just over a year, with the first opening in Winchester in October 2016.

Mr Litchfield said: “We have worked really hard to establish ourselves in Winchester, and wanted to open another shop as quickly as possible, and not fall into a position where we got too comfortable with just one store.”

When asked about future expansion plans he said: “We would love to open more Piecaramba!’s and we’ve earmarked a couple of other towns for expansion if and when the time is right.”

Mr Linssen said: “We just wanted to create an exciting and fun place to eat for all ages.”

The Winchester shop has received high praise, after a surprise visit from Guardian restaurant critic, Jay Raynor. On the opening of the new store, Raynor quipped: “Lucky Southampton.”