Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall is to close River Cottage Kitchen in Bristol after seven years of trading at the site on Whiteladies Road.
The River Cottage company stated that it had been an extremely difficult decision, but due to rising costs and challenging market conditions, as well as the size and location of the site, it is no longer a viable option for the business.
Fearnley-Whittingstall said, “Following a full review of our business we have made the difficult decision to cease trading at our Bristol site.
'We’ve had a wonderful seven years in Bristol and I am deeply saddened that we cannot find a way to continue trading here. I have a strong personal connection to Bristol, having lived here just around the corner from the restaurant for most of the last 4 years. I very much hope that River Cottage will return to the City in the future.'
Fearnley-Whittingstall continued, 'I would like to thank our amazing team who have worked tirelessly over the years making our restaurant a fantastic place to eat and drink. A huge thanks also to all our wonderful customers who have supported us over the years, and our brilliant suppliers who have helped us to serve the finest produce of the region.
'We will be open until 27 March and until then we very much look forward to welcoming guests as warmly as ever. Please come in and say goodbye.
Fearnley-Whittingstall said that from April onwards, the group will be focusing all its attention on the River Cottage Kitchens in Axminster and Winchester, and the farm and cookery school, River Cottage HQ in Devon.
He added, 'We have expansion plans for River Cottage HQ which include building a guesthouse and more event spaces. We are looking forward to welcoming even more guests to the farm in the future.”
