Work is now well underway on creating a new-look "modern city bar and eatery" in the former Cri Hotel site in Napier with the interior gutted and new framework and fittings going in.
Hastings Demolition workers cleared the interior and removed windows and steps over the past three weeks and crews from Hawke's Bay Construction have now moved in.
Steve Kelly and his wife Sarah have taken over the tenancy of the hospitality site and are steering its refurbishment into what Steve Kelly said would be a friendly and welcoming new spot on Napier's socialising landscape.
What had been the site of the popular Cri Bar and Grill, which closed in 2013 ending 81 years of providing hospitality, will now re-open in May under a new name which will reflect its locality.
It will simply be called Market St.
"It just fell into place and has a nice ring to it," Kelly said.
The couple, who operate two highly acclaimed bars and eateries in the Palmerston North region, had had their eyes on the site for some time, and decided it was time to make a move, which they did last year.
They have also made the move to settle in Napier where Sarah hails from.
"This will have a real focus on the locals and be a place to enjoy some friendly hospitality."
The couple have designed the decor which he said would be contemporary modern, and conscious of the inner city's architectural heritage there would be subtle touches of Art Deco.
"It is such a great spot and we are making a real commitment to the site — a lot of effort has gone into the design."
He said in welcoming and hospitality terms Market St would have "the whole thing".
There would be craft beers and selections of the region's fine wines alongside modern and diverse dining.
"A place for people to come and relax."
The opening date had not been exactly set but it was planned to be in May.
There had been delays set off by having to work in with the requirements of Heritage New Zealand, the Napier City Council, the Art Deco Trust as well as put in place a solid fire engineering report.
"But it's not too far away now," Kelly said.
"It's super exciting."