Tony Macaroni is set to open its latest Ayrshire venue this summer.
Facebook posts from the Italian chain suggest their new Kilmarnock restaurant will open in the coming months.
Work has now started at the former Frankie & Benny's site on Queen's Drive where the new eaterie will be based.
The post reads: "Competition time at Tony Macaroni Kilmarnock! Opening Summer 2022. Sign up to our newsletter to be in with a chance of winning one of 10x tables for four to dine in at our new Kilmarnock restaurant! T&Cs apply."
The Italian chain was given the green light to open last June as they applied to East Ayrshire Council for permission to sell alcohol.
We reported in March that the restaurant was recruiting staff but no work had yet taken place at the eyesore site.
But now it appears that the long wait may be over for those eager to try Tony Macaroni with the venue due to open in town sooner rather than later.
We reported last year than as many as 20 jobs could be created at Tony Macaroni.
While a provisional premises license was granted, permission for off sales was refused as the local authority has strict alcohol rules surrounding new licenses. It assumes a policy of overprovision when looking at new licensing application.
OMOA Ltd submitted the application for the provisional premises license.
The licensing board paper said a “takeaway and home delivery service may be provided.”
The application was for licensing hours between Sunday and Thursday from 11am to midnight and Friday and Saturday between 11am and 1am.
Tony Macaroni, which has a number of restaurants in Scotland and Northern Ireland, also has a venue in Irvine and Largs.
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