Owners of a pizza restaurant in Shirley have spoken of their shock after their beloved business was broken into and looted.

What a Pizza! on Shirley Road had a brick thrown through its front door during the early hours of Friday morning (October 4).

Several bottles of alcohol were stolen by thieves, as well as cash and an electronic tablet.

“We’re relieved nobody was hurt,” said Kamil, who for more than three years has owned the establishment with his wife Karolina, both 33.

“We live in Bitterne and the restaurant was closed at that time but we received a call from one of our neighbours who said it sounded like a car had gone through the window.

“Fortunately, when we arrived, we could see that it was only a brick in comparison that had been thrown through the window and someone has managed to make their way in and take some things on the counter before leaving.

“We don’t know how much money we’ve lost as a result of the break-in yet, but we’ve spent all morning doing what we can, clearing everything up and we’ll be ready to open as normal at 5pm.”

READ MORE: Ex-Police Fed chair John Apter committed gross misconduct

Damage to the restaurant window (Image: Supplied) It’s the second time the eatery has been vandalised in recent months, when a string of restaurants were targeted in Shirley.

Kamil said: “Six months to a year ago our window was also smashed, but nothing was taken and there were a few businesses along the road that were victims of the same thing.

“It shouldn’t be the norm, but you do see these things happen.

“We’ve got a great restaurant here, we’re passionate about what we do, and we can’t wait to see our customers and neighbours again and get back to normal.”

The incident was reported to Hampshire Constabulary, the couple said.

The Echo has contacted the police for a comment.