Hoxton Hotel and Yamamori Izakaya Dispute Escalates Over Noise Complaints
A legal battle is brewing in Dublin city centre between The Hoxton Hotel and Yamamori Izakaya, a long-standing restaurant and bar, over alleged noise disturbances. The dispute has led to the Hoxton Hotel seeking an injunction to limit noise emanating from Yamamori, claiming it has forced the closure of a significant number of rooms.
Hotel Claims Room Closures Due to Noise
The Hoxton Hotel, formerly the Central Hotel, initiated legal proceedings in February, alleging that late-night music from Yamamori Izakaya is causing unacceptable noise levels. According to court documents, the hotel has been forced to close 31 of its 129 bedrooms due to guest complaints and subsequent negative online reviews . The hotel estimates potential losses of €300,000 by the end of March as a result of these room closures .
Yamamori’s Response and Proposed Solutions
Yamamori Izakaya reportedly suggested that the Hoxton Hotel should have implemented noise attenuation measures during its recent refurbishment . The restaurant and bar operates five nights a week, playing music from 11 pm to 3 am, and until 2:30 am on Sundays .
Hotel’s Position and Mediation Efforts
Despite engaging with Yamamori, the Hoxton Hotel is still seeking the injunction, stating it needs to address the ongoing loss of revenue from unavailable rooms. The hotel has made an open offer to resolve the issue, but maintains that sound testing is the key to finding a solution . Mediation was considered, but the hotel believes the core issue revolves around objective sound level measurements.
Public Reaction and Protests
The legal action has sparked public criticism, with many expressing concern that it could lead to the closure of Yamamori Izakaya, a popular Dublin nightlife venue. A protest was held outside the Hoxton Hotel, with demonstrators arguing for the preservation of cultural spaces in the city .
Hoxton Hotel’s Stance on Yamamori’s Future
The Hoxton Hotel has publicly stated that it does not want to see Yamamori Izakaya close and does not want to curtail nightlife venues in the area . This statement came after facing significant backlash for pursuing the legal injunction.
Future Developments
The case was adjourned in the High Court to allow time for mediation and potential expert inspections to assess noise levels and mitigation measures. The court has directed the exchange of papers between the parties and will revisit the case next month . The Hoxton Hotel likewise plans to open its own nightclub, Groundwork, in the basement of the Globe bar, which is located adjacent to Yamamori Izakaya .