When Antalya closed its doors due to "unforeseen circumstances" fans of the Turkish restaurant, were hopeful that it would reopen. But that was two years ago during the pandemic. Ever since the doors of the well-established restaurant, that first opened in 1989, have remained locked.
However, it's a new beginning at the premises in Nottingham city centre. Work is underway to transform the restaurant in Forman Street - and since it's stood empty for so long, it's taking an immense amount of effort.
It is set to reopen in a few weeks time as Temola, a brand new concept from the man who launched Ohannes Burgers across Nottinghamshire, in the city centre and towns including Beeston, Arnold and Hucknall. Murat Yer, speaking through an interpreter, said: "We will be serving breakfast, brunch, fresh desserts, coffee and a chicken-based menu. It will be based on Turkish food with hints of world cuisine.
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"We are hoping to open in three weeks. This place was untouched for the last two years, it was closed due to Covid so there's been a lot of work. I don't want to use the word 'luxurious' as it won't be expensive."
The property is unusual in that it has windows looking out into two parallel Nottingham streets. The restaurant entrance is on Forman Street, but go up a couple of steps, and it takes you to the first floor of the property overlooking Upper Parliament Street, where the new owner is creating a private dining area. Beneath used to be Antalya's takeaway but that later reopened as Pizza Chicken Kebab Hot 4 You.
The upper floors of the property are also being brought into use as a hotel. There will be 11 bedrooms over two floors, plus a penthouse. It is hoped the hotel will open later this year.
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