QUEENS RISE OPENING THURSDAY

After years of planning and speculation, Queen’s Rise is only days away from opening. Initially scheduled for a debut in early 2017, the dining precinct will be housed in the 900m2 historic building at 125 Queen St, once home to the Sultan of Brunei. Queen’s Rise will open on Thursday June 21.

Inspired by laneway style dining from around the world, Queen’s Rise will be home to 11 eateries offering a range of international cuisine. The overall design was done by Sydney-based architects Jeremy Bull and Charlene Cong, who make the most of the exposed structure and raw materials for an "edgy, intriguing environment."

Queen’s Rise "has been inspired by the best international café courts and laneway concepts found abroad," according to developer Duncan Elley.

The eateries are:

Ottoman Mezze Lounge – the hero tenant run by Nazar Group restaurateur Alex Isik (Feriza's, Miss Istanbul, Bodrum Kitchen), a Turkish inspired concept drawing influence from the region in terms of dishes and shared dining.

Lowbrow – the newest opening from Kyle Street and Jordan Macdonald of Culprit, previewed at the Auckland City Limits music festival earlier this year.

Dante’s Pizzeria – the third branch of the Neapolitan pizzeria and pasta restaurant.

Nourish Pod – acai bowls out of Hamilton.

Poké Bar – the second opening of the California-owned joint.

Tokyo Loco Bowl – Japanese donburi eatery.

Panda – freshly made Chinese dumplings and dim sum.

Potato & Me – a mainly vegetarian establishment, featuring roasted potatoes served with a range of salts and sides.

Dolly Bird – a new opening from the owners of Marvel Grill on North Wharf.

Grace – cocktails, Champagne, craft beer, oysters and fine dining.

Jar Story – on-the-go salads.