Award-winning bar & restaurant in UK seaside town to close after 10 years as owner teases ‘it's just the beginning'

Scottish Sun

16 hours ago

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A MUCH-LOVED bar and restaurant is set to close its doors after almost a decade in the heart of the seaside town.
Ojo Rojo, located in the Bournemouth Triangle, has announced it will be leaving the area after ten years of serving up tacos, cocktails, and a lively Mexican atmosphere.
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Ojo Rojo, earned a spot in the UK's Top 50 Cocktail Bars for three years running
Credit: Facebook / Ojo Rojo
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Locals have responded with an outpouring of emotion, sharing memories and messages of support on social media
Credit: Facebook / Ojo Rojo
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From its diverse cocktail menu featuring house-made syrups and infusions, to its proud selection of agave spirits
Credit: Facebook / Ojo Rojo
Founded in Bournemouth, Dorset, by Trevor Hill and JJ Adams, Ojo Rojo made a name for itself with its bold flavours, mezcal-based drinks, and vibrant setting.
It even earned a spot in the UK's Top 50 Cocktail Bars for three years running.
The news was first reported by the Bournemouth Echo, who spoke with co-founders Trevor Hill and JJ Adams, confirming the closure is a 'strategic move' shaped by 'national industry pressure and local challenges.'
But they've made it clear – this isn't the end.
'After nearly ten years of tacos, mezcal, music and magic, it's time for a new chapter,' they said.
'Ojo Rojo is moving on. Not because we've lost what makes us special but because we're ready to take everything that we've learnt and shape it into something stronger.'
Locals have responded with an outpouring of emotion, sharing memories and messages of support on social media.
Rachel Grant posted: 'Our first date venue, where will we go for our anniversary now.'
Kelly Marie Young added: 'Such a shame! We love this restaurant.'
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Others praised the team's effort.
There's also been frustration about the wider town centre.
Ojo Rojo is well known for its dedication to authentic Mexican culture.
From its diverse cocktail menu featuring house-made syrups and infusions, to its proud selection of agave spirits, the bar has drawn fans from across the South Coast.
'Our ambition is to revolutionise the well-known taco, while educating people about the deep-rooted Mexican culture,' reads a statement on their website.
'We are passionate that everyone who comes into contact with us feels refreshed.'
The venue, which includes a downstairs bar, upstairs dining, and an outdoor hacienda, will continue to operate for a short while longer.
Its sister site, Hacienda Harden, is also set to close.
The owners remain hopeful and committed to the future.
'You reminded us what this place means to people and why this next chapter matters so much, from me, Jayjay and the whole office thank you so much for all the love,' they said.
'We're here for a little bit longer. Remember we are not done yet… This is just the beginning.
"We want to build what comes next with you. Because whatever that next version looks like, it's going to have the same soul – yours.'
Ojo Rojo's closure adds to a growing list of businesses shutting their doors in Bournemouth and across the UK.
In Bournemouth, the Winton branch of WHSmith closed earlier this year, and the town has seen other high street names disappear amid rising costs and shifting shopping habits.
Nationally, the retail and hospitality sectors are facing significant challenges.
Department store Beales, which first opened in Bournemouth in 1881, closed its last remaining store in Poole in May 2025, citing increased operational costs and tax burdens.
Other notable closures include Karen's Diner in Islington, which shut its final UK branch in June 2025 after its parent company went into liquidation with £400,000 in debt.
Fashion retailer River Island is reportedly developing a radical rescue plan amid financial struggles, with store closures and job losses being potential outcomes.
The Original Factory Shop is undergoing significant restructuring, with several stores across regions such as Worcestershire, Durham, and Cumbria slated to shut down this month.
These closures highlight the broader economic pressures facing UK businesses, including rising operational costs, changing consumer behaviours, and increased competition from online retailers.
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