A CITY centre restaurant which has been temporarily closed since the start of the pandemic has confirmed when it will be reopening its doors.

Upstairs at the Grill, opposite sister business Barlounge on Watergate Street, Chester, is currently undergoing restoration and expansion works ahead of an official new year return.

However, if you're looking to visit the Manhattan-style steakhouse sooner then in you're luck as the business has also confirmed that it will be open on select dates in December for Christmas parties.

Earlier this year, Upstairs at the Grill submitted plans to convert what was once the neighbouring Corbett Sports bookmaker – and currently an empty building – into part of the expanded kitchen, creating an increased amount of seating at the restaurant.

The proposal was rubber-stamped by Cheshire West and Chester Council last month.

In an update posted on its Facebook page, Upstairs at the Grill said: "Since the day we opened our doors 18 years ago, we have been overwhelmed by the support and warmth you have shown us especially during the time we have been closed.

"Our wonderful team have always shown so much dedication and truly poured their heart and souls into making Upstairs at the Grill one of the longest standing restaurants in Chester.

"Over the years we have been a part of countless special occasions, birthdays, anniversaries and took great pleasure in looking after so many of you.

"The question on everyone’s lips – when will we be making a return? You may have noticed some building work taking place over the last couple of months.

"We are beyond excited and thrilled to finally announce that we will be back in the new year and we can’t wait to welcome you in to our new and improved restaurant!

"We have some exciting plans to transform our iconic home in the Olde Custom House Building whilst preserving Upstairs at the Grill’s key features to ensure your return is nostalgic.

"Our team of chefs and bartenders are already hard at work behind the scenes developing an exciting new food and drink menu that we can't wait to share with you. Don’t worry your old favourites will still feature!

"Keep an eye out for more updates and sneak previews of what’s to come. We cannot wait to welcome you all back and we promise it will be worth the wait!"

  • If you are in interested in booking a Christmas party you can email hello@upstairsatthegrill.co.uk