Who is taking over the former Coyote's spot on Academy Street in Inverness?

Inverness will soon welcome a new addition to its food and drink offer as a new restaurant is set to open on Academy Street.

Works are underway to prepare for the opening of the new Indian street food restaurant Mumbai Thistle, which will take over the premises formerly occupied by Coyote's Inverness.

Owners Donald Mackay and Karthikappallil George picked up the keys only five days ago and are hoping to open the new restaurant in the next few weeks.

"We decided to call it Mumbai Thistle to represent both Indian and Scottish Influence," said Mr Mackay.

"Our aim is to bring something unique and different in Inverness. We want to bring the flavours of Mumbai to the Highlands.

The restaurant will specialise in Indian street food with some twists – from Chola Bhature to Haggis samosas, naanzones – calzones made with naan bread – up to a live dosa station where customers will be able to admire the chefs in action.

Mr Mackay travelled around Asia extensively for over ten years while working in the oil and gas industry and became passionate about the local cuisine.

Karthikappallil George, originally from Kerala, is the owner of Georges Thai and South Indian Restaurant in Queensgate.

Mr Mackay said that they are looking forward to welcome the public in their new premises as works continue to rebrand and prepare the venue.

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