A TOP restaurant set up my TV chef Heston Blumenthal’s pal has announced sudden closure just hours before Christmas.
Fare Eatery served British food in the city centre and is now closing just two months after opening.
The Berkshire restaurant was set up by restaurant consultancy firm Truffle Hunting, led by ex-Fat Duck director Nigel Sutcliffe and former Young Chef of the Year James McLean.
Fare Eatery managers said revealed the current state of the building was “simply not fit for purpose”, which has been an “ongoing challenge” for the owners.
A statement released by Fare Eatery stated it was “not comfortable, air conditioned or suitably heated” for guests.
The 1860 building was previously a venue for restaurant Rynd and also the town council.
Described as “trendy” and “contemporary” by country lifestyle publication Muddy Stiletto’s the food had generally very good reviews.
Its traditional menu offered multiple small plates or a three course meal.
The statement added: “The hospitality industry is in crisis and independent restaurants are struggling to stay afloat.
“As local residents we have invested heavily into our small business, substantially more than we have earned, pushing to create and maintain careers for local people.
“Our landlord will need to work with us over the coming months to address these issues.”
A spokesperson from Wokingham Town Council said they “recognise the challenging environment that the hospitality industry faces at present, and the cost pressures businesses face”.
The team, which was run by an array of culinarily professionals, will now have to wait until 2025 before the restaurant will reopen.
