A POPULAR Michelin-guide restaurant is set to close for good after just over one year of trading.
The owner of the London-based eatery said financial difficulties were the reason for the closure.
Sesta in Hackney, London, was added to the Michelin Guide for Great Britain and Ireland in December, and one year later on December 20 the restaurant will have its final service.
In a statement posted to Instagram the owner said: “While we’ve loved every minute of bringing this little restaurant to life, sadly times are just too hard to make ends meet.”
Sesta was opened in September 2024 by Chef Drew Snaith and general manager Hannah Kowalski.
The duo first worked together at Jackson Boxer’s Brunswick House in Vauxhall.
They were reunited at James Ramsden and Sam Herlihy’s Pidgin and eventually took over the site and relaunched as Sesta,
Snaith was inspired by experimental ethos at Pidgin and hoped to bring their more casual atmosphere to the restaurant.
The eatery opened with dishes such as “Findus” fish pie pancake and ranch or slow-grilled Yorkshire chicken leg with brioche and prune stuffing.
Sesta’s described itself as “a neighbourhood restaurant & wine bar in Hackney” on their website.
The owners took to Instagram for a farewell message.
They said: “It’s with a heavy heart that we announce Sesta will not be reopening in the new year.
“While we’ve loved every minute of bringing this little restaurant to life, sadly times are just too hard to make ends meet.
“We’re so proud of the space we’ve created and the brilliant team that have worked tirelessly to make it happen.
“We’re so grateful for all the laughs and good times we’ve had along the way, the plates served and glasses clinked.”
Comments flooded in with many saying they would be sad to see the restaurant close.
“Sesta is such a special place and you should be so proud of it. I’ll miss having you as my home from home local,” said one social media user.
Another added: “Devastating news. Best food from an incredible team.”
This closure quickly follows that of another Michelin-guide restaurant in London.
Popham’s in London Fields had its final service today after six years of service.
