About time, too

Just hours after Victoria Gate Casino opened its doors to the public - to a chorus of kerchings, bartenders apologising as they hand over pints of Carling, and punters wondering why they’ve based the interior design on a 1994 P&O cruise vessel - restaurant group D&D have unveiled plans for their section of Victoria Gate’s upper-floor.

170127 Issho Casino Copy
Victoria Gate Casino

D&D London - who currently run Crafthouse and Angelica in Trinity Leeds - signed up to occupy the almost 8,000sq ft in 2015 when the development wasn’t far beyond a twinkle in its architect’s eye.

They’re seeking permission to fit out the interior space and outside dining terrace as a Japanese restaurant. Meaning “Together” in Japanese, Issho will be the first Japanese restaurant in D&D’s Michelin star-studded portfolio.

Plans submitted by Design LSM feature a Robata grill counter where diners can sit and watch chefs prepare their food to order, as well as tables, booths, and banquette seating.

As well as Isshu, plans for a bar called East 59th have also been submitted to the plot - presumably basing its aesthetic around the central-Manhattan namesake known for its chic, trendy cocktail bars and proximity to 5th Avenue and, er, Trump Tower…

Issho and East 59th are expected to open mid-2017.

170127 Isshu Crafthouse