The opening date for a new concept of Japanese bar and restaurant in Edinburgh's city centre has been confirmed.
Locals were quick to get excited after seeing the Star Wars themed posters in the window at 40-41 Queensferry Street in October, suggesting that a new eatery based on the sci-fi fan favourite was coming to the capital.
Although there have been no indications, other than the decor, that Hope Izakaya is set to based on Star Wars, the new and exciting concept of a Japanese bar in the city's west end is bound to draw visitors from all over.
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Izakaya is being introduced by the same team behind Hope Omurisu, a Japanese restaurant on Nicolson Street, as they recently confirmed the opening date for their new business venture is to be on Sunday, December 18.
The term translates in Japanese as a place for people to go after work to drink, socialise and eat food.
Making the announcement on their Instagram page, they said: "Craving a slice of Japan in the heart of Edinburgh? Stroll over to Hope Izakaya, we cheer you up with intimate yet stylish heat!
"Join us at our Grand opening, enjoy a complimentary mocktail and this limited edition candle handcrafted The Edinburgh Candlemaker Co this Sunday. We will be opening at 2pm this Sunday."
Previously, Hope Izakaya advertised themselves as a new concept with a wide variety of "delectable offerings." It is understood the bar and restaurant will offer both beer and cocktails, as well as Japan's finest delicacies.
In a previous post teasing the opening of Izakaya, they said: "With a wide selection of delectable offerings from made to order Japanese BBQ skewers (Yakitori) to refined Japanese delicacies and more. A sommelier-curated menu with an impressive array of sake, an inspiring selection of cocktails and beer that can whet any appetite.
"Hope Izakaya is the perfect space to unwind, relax and have a good time.
"Please join us in welcoming the newest addition to our HOPE family, and we hope to bring you satisfying yet warm and cosy dining experience."
The signage on the building, which was previously Italian pizzeria Quattro Zero, is presented to replicate the iconic text before a Star Wars movie, as it says: "A new hope rising soon," although the term Hope refers to the restaurant's brand name, not the Star Wars saga.
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