London food-lovers have been left shocked after a Michelin-starred chef announced he was closing his popular restaurant after 23 years.
Giorgio Locatelli, star of hit Channel 4 show Celeb Cooking School, took to social media to say his Italian venue Locanda Locatelli had shut for good.
Bosses said the permanent closure, coming days after a busy New Year’s Eve service, is ‘out of their control’.
The reasons behind the decision remain unclear, but the eatery did hint at a ‘new project’ in the future when addressing their customers in a statement released on their website.
It read: ‘With a heavy heart, for reasons out of our control, we are now permanently closed.
‘We will miss all of our clients, many who have become friends.
‘But when one door closes, another opens, so please check our social media for updates on our new project.
‘We wish you all a happy, healthy and prosperous 2025 and thank you all for your custom over the last 23 years.’
Giorgio Locatelli, star of hit Channel 4 show Celeb Cooking School, took to social media today to say his Italian venue Locanda Locatelli had shut for good.
The reasons behind the decision remain unclear, but the eatery did hint at a ‘new project’ in the future when addressing their customers in a statement released on their website
Over the years, celebrities such as Kate Winslet, Brad Pitt, Bill Clinton and Madonna have all been fed at the restaurant, located on Seymour Street in Marylebone
Mr Locatelli, 61, opened the establishment on Seymour Street in Marylebone with his wife Plaxy in 2002 and received a Michelin star one year later.
It was regarded as one of London’s best Italian restaurants and also one of its priciest, with mains usually priced in the £30-£50 range.
It became infamous for serving dishes such as lobster linguine, pappardelle with broad beans and rocket and cicerchia soup with whole grain prawn ravioli.
Over the years, celebrities such as Kate Winslet, Brad Pitt, Bill Clinton and Madonna were drawn to the venue’s chic dining room, designed by David Collins.
Mr Locatelli nearly closed the site in 2014, after a gas explosion damaged the building and injured some staff members.
But he decided to carry on and the restaurant underwent a £1million refurbishment.
Fans of Locanda Locatelli have been quick to share their disappointment after the news, with many praising the ‘quality restaurant’ and its ‘faultless food’.
One person said: ‘End of an era. One of my favourite spots ever,’ while another added: ‘Some of my favourite food memories are with you. I wish you all the best for whatever happens next.’
