The world's first Transformers-themed restaurant with exclusive merch is set to open this year on a prime site at Russell Street, Causeway Bay.

The restaurant, owned by A La Carte (HK), will be the first in a planned rollout of Transformers-themed restaurants around the world - based on the renowned movie series with the same title - with more to come in Asia.

In a statement yesterday, the catering group said it has signed a lease agreement to establish the first Transformers restaurant at Russell Street.

"Directly opposite the landmark Times Square complex, the site is on one of the world's most exclusive commercial shopping streets," it said.

"The Causeway Bay Flagship Store will stay true to the Transformers brand's core DNA and will provide consistent and compelling touch points to attract dine-in customers," it said, adding "the restaurant will be designed to include displays that will transport customers into the Cybertronian universe and allow them to enjoy meals with their favorite Autobot and Decepticon characters through dynamic visual interfaces."

The group said there will also be a retail section at the restaurant, displaying Transformers toys and unique bespoke lifestyle products that will only be available at restaurant outlets.

Some limited edition products will also be offered by the restaurant to attract customers.

"We are excited that our first flagship store will be situated in such a premium commercial location with a fantastic street frontage on the ground and first floors. The Transformers location will become an iconic destination for locals and visitors to the city," said Zoe Chow, senior vice president of A La Carte. "Such great visibility is sure to bring pleasure to an expanding universe of satisfied customers."

The "high-tech dynamic" themed restaurant is scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of this year, the catering group said.

Preparations are under way at Russell Street, Causeway Bay.

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