BBC Masterchef star closes award-winning restaurant TODAY after ‘unforgettable journey' as he teases ‘final celebration'

The Sun

a day ago

AN AWARD-winning restaurant owned by a BBC Masterchef star is closing today after an "unforgettable journey".
Announcing the news online, chef Ritchie Staisnby teased a "final celebration" before he closes the doors to the much-loved vegan food spot.
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Owners of the restaurant made the decision to shut up shop after admitting "everything is up in the air".
Co-owner of Nottingham-based No. Twelve, Ritchie Stainsby built up a strong relationship with his regular customers after starring on Masterchef: The Professionals last year.
He runs the restaurant alongside wife Lauren and despite the popular spot being filled up most days, Ritchie has called time on the project.
The final farewell will take place on 1 June and is open to all members of the public.
Tickets are free and the restaurant will be serving heavily discounted booze and food, and will even auction off some of its items.
In a post on Instagram the couple said: "This is more than just a party — it's a thank you, a farewell, and a celebration of everything No.Twelve has stood for.
"Whether you've dined with us once or a hundred times, we'd love to see your face and raise one last glass together.
No dress code — just bring your friends, your appetite, and your best stories. Let's make this a day to remember."
News of the closure was announced earlier this year with the TV chef alluding to things being "up in the air" despite being as busy as ever.
They said: "We got some sensitive news that's out of our hands.
"We have loved doing this and the reason it's coming to an end so abruptly is some personal circumstances for us and those around us that contribute to the restaurant closing.
"No. Twelve hasn't failed, to be honest we are busier than we ever have been.
"And because we're a couple we guarantee people will think we've split up. Just to clarify we are a happily married couple."
He ended the passionate message by saying: "Everything is up in the air at the moment and, even though we don't know what's going to happen, I'm still going to be a chef."
The 33-year-old is yet to say what led to the closure of No. Twelve but he did confirm the brand would live on in the form of regular pop-up events.
Private dining bookings will also still be available for guests who want to get their tastebuds back with Ritchie's tasty offerings.
No. Twelve can be found at Eldon Chambers in a busy part of Nottingham.
It was first opened up in 2017 as a small 24-seater cafe in Hounds Gate being the business was transformed into a fine dining restaurant in a converted redbrick Victorian mill, off Wheeler Gate.
They specialise in vegan dishes with an imaginative twist that has wowed everyone - including devout meat lovers.
Much of the meals form an à la carte menu but there is also a seven-course tasting menu for people to try.
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Until today the spot was running as usual to provide diners with a culinary experience they won't forget.
Lauren, 29, previously said: "What we want to do over the next three months is celebrate.
"One door closes, another door opens. We're going to see it as something positive.
"It is sad but we don't want to be sad about it because there is no point. It's been a great journey for us.
"I started this when I was 22, now I'm going to be celebrating my 30th here. It's amazing, we've done so well."
Ritchie said despite the pair choosing to step away from the business sector for now, they could be convinced back one day.
He said if the right investor came in and made an offer which was good enough then they would go into business again.
The chef said: "Whilst a change of location seems impossible at the moment, it's not something we'd ever rule out.
"The economy, as it is, is tragic for our industry. While there are places opening we often find it's people who have got big backing."
It comes after Sunday Brunch star Elliot Kaye and Richie Hayes shared that they would be closing their modern-style greasy spoon.
The North London eatery Norman's Cafe had long been a hub for influencers and fashion-forward people looking for a greasy spoon with a difference.
Opened by Sunday Brunch chef Elliot Kaye and Richie Hayes, the posh restaurant first opened its doors in 2020.
Norman's Cafe began as a sandwich shop before widening its menu to include a range of British classics.
Despite its immense popularity, however, the shop's owners announced that it will close its doors in June 2025.
What is happening to the hospitality industry?
By Laura McGuire, consumer reporter
MANY Food and drink chains have been struggling in recently as the cost of living has led to fewer people spending on eating out.
Businesses had been struggling to bounce back after the pandemic, only to be hit with soaring energy bills and inflation.
Multiple chains have been affected, resulting in big-name brands like Wetherspoons and Frankie & Benny's closing branches.
Some chains have not survived, Byron Burger fell into administration last year, with owners saying it would result in the loss of over 200 jobs.
Pizza giant, Papa Johns is shutting down 43 of its stores soon.
Tasty, the owner of Wildwood, said it will shut sites as part of major restructuring plans.