A MUCH-loved Carlisle restaurant has announced it’s return to the city, after announcing it’s closure over three years ago.

The Shabby Scholar announced its closure in May 2020, saying that it would not reopen following the coronavirus pandemic, with owner Sam Norman telling the News and Star at the time that it was a ‘good time to change things up’.

However, after the owners have announced they have been ‘keeping a secret’ planning to bring one of the city’s most loved restaurants back to Carlyle Court.

In a statement on social media, Sam and Ash said: “We have been keeping a secret. It’s always been one of my biggest regrets letting go my very first every restaurant.

“After much discussions, Ash & I have decided to bring The Shabby back to Carlyle’s Court! mixing the old school with the new, we are looking to bring back our Cumbrian tapas menu with fresh vibrant flavours from local suppliers enjoyed alongside locally sourced beers, an eclectic wine menu and hand-crafted cocktails.

“We want to say a massive thank you to Ben at Cargiet & Cowan & James Hill for giving us opportunity & letting us return to our old stomping ground.

“An open date is undetermined as of yet but keep your eyes peeled for more information and little teasers of our refurb, dishes & drinks.

“The clubhouse will remain operational until the end of our current contract which is in the new year we are so excited to get back to doing what we do best, tapas, cocktails & good times.”