Looks like Nintendo is back to trying different ventures with their IPs, this time by opening a restuarant. (Here is hoping they don't go into gambling).  Click the article for more information. 

http://arstechnica.com/gaming/2016/07/nintendo-takes-on-real-world-again-will-open-kirby-restaurant-in-august/?comments=1

I heard about this. Sucks its only in Japan, and I read on IGN it's only gonna be around for a month.

Most likely testing demand. 

Well let's hope the Japanese love it. If they see enough success I hope they bring it over to the US. I would eat there every chance I get.

Hopefully by next year in August in Seattle (planning on going there for PaxPrime2017).

Temporary themed cafes are common in Japan.  Games, anime, idol groups, wrestling organizations ... polar bears and hedgehogs.  Pokemon usually opens one when a game releases.

Wonder how much they gain from these events. 

I love restaurants like this. Neat to see younger siblings and cousins see their favorite characters and flip out.

I understand some of them have long lines while others require reservations.  A wrestling themed one I was reading about awhile ago sold tickets, gave you a little gift bag, let you take pictures and buy expensive goods, then gave you a meal that was nothing special.  I imagine they charge a lot then make more with merchandise.

They probably do pretty good.

Even the permanent ones, like the Gundam cafe, seem to be popular.

Please come to America! I need a Wispy Woods Salad in my life!