A TOP BBC chef has announced the closure of his two Michelin-starred restaurant after eight years in business, as he confessed he is “unable to reach a resolution.”
The announcement has come as a huge shock to London‘s restaurant scene.
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Famed french chef Claude Bosi, 52, took to Instagram to share the news of the closure of his South Kensington eatery.
Claude Bosi at Bibendum is a two Michelin-starred oyster and seafood restaurant, which first opened its doors in 2017.
However, in a statement shared by the coveted chef and his wife, Lucy, earlier today, it was revealed that they will stop service on August 31.
The statement reads: “It is with deep sadness that we announce Claude Bosi Restaurant ceased trading on the 25th August and the Oyster Bar will close after service on 31st August.
“Despite our very best efforts, we were unable to reach a resolution with our partners and landlords that would allow Michelin House to move into its next chapter.”
The statement goes on to explain that those with bookings after these dates have been cancelled.
It adds: “We are truly sorry for any disappointment this may cause.”
The restaurant, which was situated in the old Michelin building, entered the Michelin guide with two stars just a year after opening.
As well as this venture, Bosi also opened Brooklands at The Peninsula London, and Josephine in Chelsea and Marylebone.
The chef explained that these locations will now be where himself and the team will dedicate their focus.
The statement continues: “Our foremost priority now is our team.
“We are personally committed to ensuring that every member of staff is fully supported and guided into new opportunities within our group.
“We are deeply grateful for the incredible support shown to us over the years.
“It has been an honour to be part of the Michelin House story, and a privilege to share the journey with you.”
Fans of the restauraunt have been quick to express their devastation over the news, with one writing: “So sad to hear this – the best meal I have ever eaten was there.
“Tragic news for your wonderful crew and all the best to all of them for the future.”
Another chimed in: “The Oyster Bar is one of my favourite restaurants and your staff are always so lovely.
“Very sad for you all and a huge loss to all your loyal customers. Wishing you the very best.”
Bosi has also made countless TV appearances, notably featuring on the BBC’s Saturday Kitchen.
His segments included cooking celeriac risotto with James Martin in 2012, and most recently, preparing a saucisson brioche in 2024.
As well as this, his now-closed restaurant Hibiscus, was at the centre of a Masterchef: The Professionals semi-final.
The series seven episode, which aired in 2014, saw the contestants experience a three-hour lunch service at the renowned Mayfair restaurant.
The chefs were also made to cook Bosi’s signature roast squab pigeon dish.
Bosi’s decision makes his the second two Michelin-starred establishment in London to close this year.
The other was another high-end French restaurant Le Dame Du Pic, by the French chef Anne-Sophie Pic.
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Restaurants, food chain, and pub job losses
A NUMBER of high-profile restaurant, pub, and food chains have announced job cuts following the coronavirus crisis.
- Zizzi owner Azzurri Group announced in July 2020 that it would permanently shut 75 branches, putting 1,200 jobs at risk
- Frankie & Benny’s owner The Restaurant Group has proposed closing 125 branches, with 3,000 jobs on the line
- Byron Burger is shutting 31 restaurants, around half of its UK sites, with 600 jobs at risk
- Bella Italia and Cafe Rouge have announced the closure of 91 restaurants, with 1,900 jobs to go
- Carluccio’s is cutting 1,000 jobs with 40 restaurants to shut
- Costa Coffee is axing 1,650 jobs – it hasn’t announced any store closures at this stage
- GBK is closing 26 restaurants and making 362 workers redundant
- Greene King has shut 26 sites permanently, while a further 53 will temporarily close with their future remaining in the balance. Around 800 staff across the 79 sites are at risk of losing their jobs.
- Marston’s pub chain says 2,150 staff are at risk of being made redundant or facing significantly fewer hours
- Pizza Express has confirmed it’ll be closing 73 restaurants, putting 1,100 jobs at risk
- Pret a Manger is cutting 2,800 jobs with 30 stores to close
- Revolution Bars is planning to close six sites putting 130 jobs at risk
- Upper Crust plans to make 5,000 out of its 9,000-strong workforce redundant
- Wetherspoons is planning to cut 450 jobs from six pubs, as well as 130 head office roles.
- Whitbread (which owns Brewers Fayre, Premier Inn and Beefeater) is planning to cut 6,000 jobs as hotel demand slumps.
- Young’s is making 500 out of 4,200 staff redundant
