Signs of Progress for Royal Izakaya

A bit of good news this week for fans of Stephen Simons and David Frank (owners of Khyber Pass Pub, Royal Tavern, and the Cantinas): Michael Klein has reported on some signs of life out of the long-awaited Royal Izakaya in Queen Village. (Is it OK to say long-awaited, or have you all stopped waiting for fear of having your hearts broken?)

The zoning board approved plans yesterday for new signs and a small addition to the space (which needed a lot of help) to allow for more seating. With all of the delays, they lost their chef (as Eater reported earlier, the kitchen was to be headed up by Todd Dae Kulper, who as since moved), so the hiring process is back in motion.

Naked Philly also has the story, with a quick look at the changes the facade has undergone so far. When Klein asked co-owner Simons when to expect Izakaya to open, he quipped, "Three years ago."

· Royal Izakaya Gets a Step Closer [Insider]
· Royal Izakaya Finally a Step Closer? [Naked Philly]
· All Royal Izakaya Coverage [-EPHI-]