We'll begin with the news that after almost ten years The Restaurant at Blythswood Square hotel has closed for a refurb.

It will re-open at an as yet un-specified time in the next few months. Until then, a series of pop-ups are promised from the hotel's first floor.

We understand it is one of many changes taking place at the landmark hotel over the next few months. More news later.

Yesterday, we blogged about Damm27 and Basil's preparing to launch in Edinburgh.

Both bars are owned by the Star Pubs & Bars division of Heineken. They also own The Thornwood Bar on Dumbarton Road in Glasgow.

One of the city's first Art Deco bars, The Thornwood is currently undergoing refurbishment under a team with close links to The Admiral Bar in the city centre.

In its new incarnation, it will remain a traditional pub serving the local community but with a new focus on food and families.

A mid-March relaunch has been mooted.

Sit down for peri peri chicken

Flapping down to the Southside, we see that the Black Rooster Peri Peri family of chicken restaurants have opened another branch in Pollokshaws.

While the city's four other Black Roosters concentrate on takeaway, the new branch - formerly Buddy's - has extensive sit down dining facilities.

We will also mention Benihana (see main pic from Benihana Facebook). As mentioned in previous blogs, the pan-Asian teppanyaki chain has been planning to launch in the former Carluccio's on West Nile Street in the city centre.

With everything running to plan, the doors opened earlier this week.

While there are three Benihana branches in London, the new Glasgow outlet is their first UK opening for 20 years.

The menu showcases teppanyaki favourites like Hibachi steak, chicken and shrimp, as well as sushi and sashimi.

The highlight is the collection of nine teppan tables where guests can watch the chefs chopping and juggling their meal.

Six by Nico goes to Belfast

Finally, Nico Simeone has announced plans to launch a branch of his Six by Nico concept in Belfast.

We have lost count of how many new outlets the chef has launched in the past couple of years.

However, if there is an award for the hardest working and most ambitious chef in show biz then Mr Simeone is a shoe-in.

As ever, we wish all these new ventures the very best of luck.