CULINARY enthusiasts in Colchester will be getting a taste of Japanese cuisine as part of the highly anticipated Northern Gateway development.

While Joyato Sushi & Grill has already been announced as one of the additions set to open in the forthcoming leisure park, bosses at the eatery are laying the groundwork for when opening day does come.

Plans have been submitted to Colchester Council for illuminated signs over the entrance.

These proposals are for LED internally illuminated 3D formed letters, an opal acrylic face and brush metal finish to its sides.

In addition to this, a neon sign would also be provided.

Although the exact menu is not yet known as the restaurant is not open to customers, Joyato Sushi & Grill, as the name implies, will be dishing out tasty food from the Land of the Rising Sun.

A statement on their website reads: “Joyato, a culinary gem, offers an enticing blend of all-you-can-eat sushi and succulent Japanese grill.

“Their diverse a la carte menu promises a delightful journey through authentic Japaense flavours in a vibrant and welcoming setting.”

Work on the multi-million pound scheme, which is close to the Colchester United football stadium near junction 28 of the A12, started in early 2022.

On completion, the huge leisure park will become home to a new 12-screen Cineworld multiplex with a Starbucks concession, a Hollywood Bowl bowling alley and Puttstars adventure golf centre, as well as several restaurants including El Guaca, Kaspa’s, Joyato Sushi & Grill, Slim Chickens, and Taste of Italy.

American fast-food chain Wendy’s was the first brand to open at the leisure park in July last year to a queue of hungry diners.

Its neighbour, the bakery giant Greggs, famed for its sausage rolls, opened a drive-thru unit in December.

A Travelodge hotel is also under construction and is expected to open early this year.

Construction of the budget hotel reached its highest point in November 2022 and signs bearing the hospitality chain’s logo appeared towards the end of last year.