One of Birmingham's elite restaurants has announced its shock closure after 32 years, with the boss saying 'I am left with no choice'. Simpsons was Birmingham's longest-established Michelin Star restaurant, serving exquisite food for three decades.
Owner Andreas Antona has said he was left with 'no choice' but to close Simpsons after three failed sales attempts following his decision to put the Edgbaston restaurant on the market 18 months ago. Mr Antona revealed he 'didn't want it to end like this' but called the closure the 'most sensible decision'. He also runs The Cross in Kenilworth, which remains open.
Statement from Andreas Antona
In a statement on their Facebook page, Andreas said: 'It is with regret that I must announce the closure of Simpsons following 32 years in business. I didn't want it to end like this but with the economy as it stands, and so much time and money invested to keep us going, it is the most sensible decision.'
'I put Simpsons on the market a year and a half ago, after ongoing health issues led me to re-evaluate where and how I needed to focus my time and energy. At the time, I had every confidence that such a longstanding and respected Birmingham restaurant would find a suitable buyer to take it into an exciting new era. However, three aborted sales attempts later and I am left with no choice but to close the doors.'
Gratitude to Staff and Guests
He continued: 'Simpsons has been a huge part of my life for the past 32 years and I want to thank Luke, Steve and the team for maintaining the high standards that our guests expect during the toughest of economic times. I will always be grateful for your hard work and commitment.'
'I also want to extend my thanks to Simpsons alumni who played an important role in the restaurant's history. I am proud that Simpsons helped kickstart the successful careers for so many talented local chefs and front of house personnel.'
'If it wasn't for the hard work of the team, digging deep into my own pockets and the loyalty and support of our guests, this moment would have arrived much sooner.'
Challenging Economic Climate
'In my 50 plus years in hospitality I have never known a more challenging economic climate for restaurants. Our many calls for reasonable government support have fallen on deaf ears.'
'The joy and satisfaction of creating and running such a special restaurant for so long and meeting so many wonderful people along the way has made my time at Simpsons memorable. My heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been part of this journey.'
'In the meantime, Simpson's sister restaurant The Cross at Kenilworth remains open as usual and ready to welcome guests new and old. Yours, Andreas Antona.'
History and Legacy
Simpsons is set within a Grade II-listed Georgian villa which was refurbished in 2015. It has many heritage features as well as glass doors that give way to a manicured lawn and patio space. Many top Birmingham chefs started their careers in Andreas' kitchen, including Glynn Purnell and Cuubo's Dan Sweet.
The restaurant has been in Edgbaston since 2004 when chef patron Andreas Antona relocated his culinary operation to the neighbourhood from Kenilworth. The chef, once referred to by the Times as the 'Godfather of Modern Birmingham Food', revealed he would be retiring in 2025. Simpsons was awarded the Michelin Star back in 1999.
