A BRITISH designer’s restaurant, praised in the Michelin Guide, is shutting its doors after more than a decade in business.
Rising bills, increasing labour costs and high guest expectations have all made it a tough environment for restaurants this year.
Angelica and Crafthouse closed down its third location in Leeds earlier this month.
Owners D&D London cited “ongoing economic challenges” as the driving force behind the closure.
The restaurant group, known for its stylish venues across London, Manchester, and even as far afield as Paris and New York, has been scaling back its presence in the north.
Last year, D&D shuttered two other Leeds sites at Victoria Gate, leaving Angelica and Crafthouse as its last foothold in the city.
The double-venue, which opened in 2013 as D&D’s first venture outside London, was initially lauded for its cutting-edge design and ambitious dining.
It even garnered attention from the Michelin Guide, although it never secured a coveted star.
D&D London CEO David Loewi said the decision came after “thorough deliberation” and a “comprehensive review of business operations.”
He pointed to the struggles facing the hospitality sector, stating that the closure was made “with the long-term success and sustainability of D&D London in mind.”
The high-end restaurant’s closure reflects broader challenges faced by the UK’s dining scene.
Inflation, rising costs, and changes in customer spending habits have led to a wave of shutdowns across the country.
Despite their prestige, even Michelin-praised venues are not immune.
A spokesperson for Trinity Leeds described Angelica and Crafthouse as “an iconic part of the city’s dining scene” and said its impact “would continue for some time to come.”
They confirmed other businesses had already expressed interest in the prime rooftop space.
The closure marks the latest chapter in a difficult period for D&D London.
Once celebrated for expanding beyond London into northern cities, the company has scaled back operations in response to financial pressures.
Angelica and Crafthouse’s departure will leave a significant gap in Leeds’ restaurant landscape, where fine dining options have dwindled in recent years.
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.
It’s not the only restaurant abruptly closing its doors.
A chef who worked at one of Jamie Oliver’s restaurants announced he will shutter his food spot, leaving diners devastated.
Meanwhile, former Masterchef finalist Tony Rodd was forced to close his restaurant in Blackheath whilst Michel Roux Jr closed the doors on his iconic restaurant Gavroche in January after 56 years in business.
Experts say the cost of living crisis has left customers favouring a cheap dinner over splashing out on fancy evenings out in expensive restaurants, and this has made celeb chefs think twice about whether it’s worth continuing to run their business.
The UK hospitality industry has faced a string of closures this year, affecting even Michelin-starred chefs and TV favourites.
Mr White’s Steak, Pizza and Gin House (Marco Pierre White) – Closed its West End and Cardiff locations in January.
Mere (Monica Galetti) – Shut in April after seven years, leaving fans disappointed.
Le Gavroche (Michel Roux Jr) – Iconic Mayfair restaurant closed after 56 years in January.
Greens (Simon Rimmer) – Both Manchester branches closed in 2024, citing rising costs.
Cornerstone (Tom Brown) – Hackney diner shut down in June due to high costs.
Oyster & Fish House (Mark Hix) – Lyme Regis spot closed after 17 years.
One Fish Street (Bradley Monk) – St Ives eatery shut on January 2, but hinted at new ventures.
Ibérica (Nacho Manzano) – Leeds and two London locations closed, though one London branch remains.
Purnell’s (Glynn Purnell) – Birmingham restaurant closed in October, leaving voucher holders out of pocket.
The Collective (Craig Rogan) – Leeds-based restaurant closed unexpectedly by the landlord.
Socca (Samyukta Nair & Claude Bosi) – Mayfair site to serve its last orders on November 30.
