The second John Lewis food hall from Waitrose is set to open on 6 August at the Bluewater shopping centre, following a £21.9m spend on the branch. The hall will include a charcuterie bar, wine bar and pattisserie in the basement.

Meat, fish, cheese and wine specialists will be on hand to answer questions on provenance, cooking techniques such as filleting and hand-carving skills, and food and wine pairings. A floristry counter will offer bouquets from scratch.

"The investment in this branch means we can continue to improve the customer experience by adding new and exciting features," said Andy Street, managing director of John Lewis. 

"No doubt this will greatly enhance the shopping experience and customers' enjoyment," added store manager Simon Russell.

The first John Lewis food hall was opened in the chain's flagship branch on London's Oxford Street two years ago.