Close to two months after Pesce's departure from 2223 Market St., a new Japanese restaurant from a big name is in the works.

A liquor license application was filed yesterday for the space, and though there's no restaurant name, one of the people behind the new restaurant is listed as Yoshimori Tome, aka Yoshi Tome, owner of Sushi Ran in Sausalito. (Also listed on the application are Mynor Morales and Paul Quinn.) 

This lends credence to a September rumor from Tablehopper that said Tome might be opening a "casual concept" in Pesce's former home. When reached for contact, Sushi Ran downplayed the idea, saying that it was just a rumor and that they had nothing to say at the time. However, Inside Scoop confirmed this morning that "a fun, sophisticated and casual Japanese offering" from Sushi Ran is in the works, along with a full bar.

Sushi Ran, which Tome has run since 1986, is one of the Bay Area's top Japanese restaurants, holding a Michelin star from 2006-2008, and winning numerous accolades for its ambiance and sushi offering.

Opening for the as-yet unnamed new Japanese spot is targeted for early spring 2016.