A popular bistro has confirmed it will reopen soon after being forced to shut when a car ploughed through its front window. 

Residents said they “can’t wait” to visit Matilda’s in Kings Langley High Street when it relaunches with new offerings on Friday, October 18, over two months after the crash on August 14.

Witnesses described hearing a “massive noise” as a black Mazda CX-3 careered into the eatery after a “near miss” with a grey Nissan Qashqai at the junction of High Street and The Nap.

A Mazda smashed into the bistro's shopfront on August 14.A Mazda smashed into the bistro's shopfront on August 14. (Image: Andy Putman) Owner Sam Cowham said: “I’m really looking forward to it. I've got my bookings in November and December going through the roof so I need to reopen.

“People have literally been asking me everyday when we’re opening. The target is the 18th of October and we will go from there.”

Owner Sam Cowham named his new bistro after his four-year-old daughter, Matilda.Owner Sam Cowham named his new bistro after his four-year-old daughter, Matilda. (Image: Sam Cowham) The closure was “frustrating” as it came just months after the restaurant opened in June, but the owner added: “But you know, it's happened now so we just go from here and bounce back.”

The team still needs to fix the front window, which could cost between £3,000 and £6,500 depending on whether it needs to be repaired or fully replaced.

Matilda's façade before the crashMatilda's façade before the crash (Image: Sam Cowham)

Sam said the community had been “really supportive” and he thanked customers in a social media post for checking in and offering help during the closure.

Residents have already shared their excitement at the reopening as one commented: “So pleased you’re going to be up and running again Sam. Can't wait to come back and try the new amazing menu soon.”

The bistro will feature a new winter menu, including a Philly cheesesteak, chicken parmesan baguettes, warm chicken Caesar salad and a three cheese grilled toastie with a tomato soup dip.

There will also be a two-for-one offer on cocktails under a new happy hour on Thursdays between 6pm and 8pm, as well as Halloween treats and a festive bottomless brunch for Christmas.

Matilda’s opening times have been shifted later so it is now closed on Mondays, and opens from 11am on most days, with a 9am start on Saturdays.