Empire Cafe branches out
Owners of Best Local Restaurant The Empire Cafe have announced their expansion with the acquisition of The Highland pub in Burley, on the outskirts of Leeds city centre. The pub, which has been empty since 2023, will reopen in spring as The Highland Laddie and its menu will build on Empire’s elevated casual concept with comforting small plates.
Simpsons goes up for sale
A pioneer of the West Midlands dining scene, Andreas Antona, has announced he is retiring after 50 years in the hospitality industry. The chef-proprietor of Simpsons has put the restaurant in Edgbaston up for sale, although will continue to oversee the menu at the Cross at Kenilworth and his pastry business Soko Patisserie. The business will continue to operate once sold with Andreas keen to find a buyer who will continue his legacy.
A trio of closures
In Kent, Water Lane custodians Nick Selby and Ian James have scaled back operations, closing their walled garden eatery as they shift focus to simplifying the business. In Yorkshire, much-loved restaurant Owt has closed after just over a year in its Burley Road site. In the Highlands, Jonny Gent and Russell Potter (also of Sessions Arts Club) have closed The Boath House with immediate effect among reports the stylish artists retreat struggled to land with locals.
Tom Brown returns to Capital Hotel
Chef-patron of The Pearly Queen Tom Brown has announced his return to the Capital Hotel where he first worked as Nathan Outlaw’s head chef back in 2016. He will be launching a new 28-cover restaurant this spring, following the closure of his flagship fine dining restaurant Cornerstone last year.
