In a deal that has seen previous fits and starts, Big City Diner will be opening at Windward Mall, in the space to be vacated by IHOP.

Big City Diner is expected to open in the 5,411 square-foot space in early 2015, according to an announcement by mall officials.

Big City currently employs some 400 local residents and is in the process of hiring for the new Kaneohe location, for both front- and back-of-the-house positions.

The diner had been rumored, in the middle of last year, to be preparing to move into the space, but IHOP renewed its lease at that time.

IHOP has since entered into an early termination agreement with mall management.