An old toilet block is to be transformed into a bar and bistro on a scenic harbour.
Joint owners Rosemary Robertson and Peter Childe plan to open a new venue called Ropes in Maidens.
The South Ayrshire Council Licensing board granted the new cafe permission to sell alcohol despite objections from residents.
Ms Robertson told the board the venue would offer Tapas, outdoor seating and be dementia friendly. Public toilets would also be provided. It will be open from 11am to 11.45pm.
She pointed out how the building used to be a target for vandals and the new business will help regeneration.
Addressing councillors on Thursday (15 August), she said: “For us as the applicants we would like you to support our application as credible.”
She added that the “community is at the heart” of the venture.
Music, live performances, dance facilities, televised sport and outdoor drinking will also be on offer.
Objections included concerns about noise, policing and dangers of people being intoxicated in the harbour area.
Objector Tony Roper said he had initially thought the new business would be a cafe.
Mr Roper said: “As the nearest neighbour we are deeply concerned about how it has gone from a cafe to a pub.”
He expressed concerns about lack of parking, deliveries and raised questions about whether vehicles would park on double yellow lines.
He pointed out how it could be a risk if intoxicated people wander down into the harbour.
The Maidens resident stated the neighbouring cottages were 160-years-old.
He added: “The decision made here will be forever. It could affect the area and make it a worse place.”
Responding to concerns, Ms Robertson said the concept was always a cafe bar.
She said noise will drift out across the bay in the opposite direction of the neighbouring cottages.
Councillors left the meeting to discuss the application in private. On return they granted the licence.
Other owner Mr Childe said the cafe had a lot of community backing.
