In 2025, several London restaurants have closed, attributing their closures to rising business costs and staffing issues. Notable closures include Soif, Mr Ji, and Officina 00, which recently expanded before shutting down. Margot closed in June, citing increases in business rates and national insurance. Chick 'n' Sours' co-founder raised concerns about the struggle of independent operators facing food inflation, wage increases, and other financial pressures. Overall, the year has seen a significant impact on London's hospitality sector, with many establishments unable to sustain operations due to financial constraints.
Chick 'n' Sours' co-founder, David Wolanksi, expressed the struggle of independent operators, stating, 'It feels like the whole system is stacked against independent operators as we are being squeezed from every angle - food inflation, rising wages, relentless rent increases, service charges, and soaring utilities without the deep pockets to ride it out. It's an exhausting, never-ending battle to keep the lights on.'
Margot closed at the end of June, citing 'the substantial business rate and national insurance cost increases imposed on us in this year's budget.'
The closure of Officina 00's three sites came shortly after its expansion in February, highlighting the rapid decline faced by many in the restaurant industry.
Soif, a Clapham wine bar and bistro, announced its last service for 28th July, marking another loss in London's hospitality scene.
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