Today marks a somber day for Birmingham's culinary landscape. After 32 years of operation, Andreas Antona, owner of the renowned Simpsons restaurant, has announced its closure. As the city's longest-established Michelin Star establishment, this news deals a significant blow to Birmingham's dining reputation.
Full Statement from Andreas Antona
Andreas Antona released the following statement: "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."
He continued: "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 Alumni
Antona expressed his thanks: "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."
Economic Challenges
He highlighted the difficult 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."
Sister Restaurant Remains Open
Antona confirmed that Simpsons' sister restaurant, The Cross in Kenilworth, continues to operate as usual. He concluded: "My heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been part of this journey. Yours, Andreas Antona."
