Arheon – Several legendary restaurants in England have permanently closed their doors in recent years, reflecting the challenges faced by the culinary industry amid economic pressures and shifting consumer behavior. Here are some of their stories:
1. Le Gavroche, London
The iconic French restaurant founded by the Roux family officially closed in January 2024 after more than 50 years of operation.
Michel Roux Jr., the owner, decided to close the restaurant to focus on family and achieving a better work-life balance.
Le Gavroche was famously the first UK restaurant to earn two Michelin stars and pioneered fine dining in the country.
2. Pollen Street Social, London
Chef Jason Atherton’s restaurant announced its permanent closure on July 31, 2024.
Since opening in 2011, Pollen Street Social earned a Michelin star and numerous other accolades.
Its closure highlights the challenges facing fine dining establishments due to economic pressures and changing consumer habits.
3. L’Ortolan, Shinfield
The gourmet restaurant located in Berkshire closed in August 2024 after nearly 40 years in operation.
L’Ortolan once held a Michelin star and was renowned for its classic French cuisine.
A drop in ratings and financial struggles were key reasons for the closure.
4. Oyster & Fish House, Lyme Regis
The seaside restaurant owned by celebrity chef Mark Hix closed in December 2024 after 16 years of service.
The COVID-19 pandemic and local planning disputes were major factors behind the closure.
Hix stated he has no plans to open another restaurant in the future.
5. Neat Burger
The vegan burger chain backed by Lewis Hamilton and Leonardo DiCaprio closed all of its UK locations in 2025 after facing significant financial losses.
Despite celebrity endorsements and international expansion, Neat Burger struggled to survive amid fierce competition and changing consumer behaviors.
These closures reflect the shifting landscape of the British culinary scene, where economic pressures, evolving customer preferences, and operational challenges have forced many renowned establishments to shut their doors.
Nevertheless, their legacy and contributions to the culinary world will continue to be remembered by food lovers everywhere.