Celebrity Chef Explains Reasons Behind Wiltshire Restaurant Closure
Rick Stein, the well-known chef, presenter, and restaurateur, shared insights into the sudden closure of his only Wiltshire restaurant in an exclusive interview. Stein, who owns a chain of successful restaurants across the UK and has authored several cookbooks, opened his Marlborough restaurant in 2016. This was his sixth venue in England, featuring signature dishes like Dover sole a la meunière and turbot hollandaise.
On October 5, the Marlborough restaurant unexpectedly closed its doors. In conversation with the Wiltshire Gazette and Herald, Stein discussed both his new book and upcoming TV appearance, explaining the reasons behind the decision.
Economic Challenges Lead to Closure
Stein expressed that closing the restaurant was never his intention. However, escalating economic difficulties and a shrinking customer base forced the move.
"We decided to close because there just wasn’t enough business," Stein said. "We’re not going under, but we are having to restructure our business just because of the hard time we’re going through."
He further highlighted the broader struggles facing the hospitality sector.
"The whole hospitality industry is suffering. Personally, I think it’s a mixture of the government’s last budget and the quite grim economic time we have been going through."
Restaurant Overview
- Location: Marlborough, Wiltshire
- Opened: 2016
- Famous dishes: Dover sole a la meunière, turbot hollandaise
- Part of Rick Stein’s chain of restaurants
- Closed suddenly on October 5
Summary
Rick Stein attributes the closure of his Wiltshire restaurant to tough economic conditions and reduced customer numbers, reflecting wider challenges in hospitality.