Birmingham diners have expressed their dismay following the announcement that Edgbaston's Michelin-starred restaurant Simpsons will close its doors after 32 years. Many have described the closure as a 'huge loss to the city's hospitality scene'.
Owner's difficult decision
Boss Andreas Antona revealed on Thursday afternoon that he would be closing Simpsons, stating he had been 'left with no choice but to close the doors' and called it the 'most sensible decision' in the current economic climate. Antona posted a lengthy statement on the Simpsons Facebook page, which has been shared over a dozen times and attracted nearly 100 comments within an hour.
Customer reactions
Matt Holden-Jones said: 'I think if we could have gone every week, we would have! Andreas, Luke and the team have been nothing short of exceptional over the many years we've been going and this is truly a sad day. Amazing food, wines and service made this place our favourite place to go for a special meal. Why our country's incompetent leaders can't see what is happening, largely through their own poor leadership and financial decisions, is beyond me. Someone said Iconic Culinary Landmark... I completely agree.'
Keith Dixon posted: 'I'm lucky enough to have visited most of the Michelin-starred restaurants in and around Birmingham (trust me these were very special treats). I can honestly say that Simpsons was probably the pick of them all. I wish you and your staff all the best in the future.'
Dez Turland wrote: 'Dear Andreas, Luke & all the magnificent staff at Simpsons. It's such sad news to read about the closure of yet another iconic culinary landmark... it seems to be more common now than it's ever been before. Simpsons was & always will be held with such high regard; the standards you all set both front and back of house become a benchmark for our industry. It was no surprise that it soon became an iconic symbol of culinary excellence not just in Birmingham but throughout the UK, where many young chefs & FOH staff gained such valuable experience, knowledge & guidance from yourselves. I'm sure I'm not alone in expressing sadness that such a fantastic establishment will be closing its doors. All the very best to you all... & huge thanks for the wonderful memories you helped create.'
Becci Quarterman added: 'I am so sorry to hear this, a huge loss to the Birmingham Hospitality scene. Had many a good meal here. The staff and food have always been exceptional. I wish everyone all the best in their future endeavours.'
The closure marks the end of an era for one of Birmingham's most celebrated dining establishments, leaving a void in the city's culinary landscape.
