MeatLiquor Shuts Down Multiple Locations as Hospitality Sector Faces Turmoil
In a significant blow to London's dining scene, the popular smash burger restaurant MeatLiquor has closed more than half of its locations. This move comes amid widespread challenges in the hospitality industry, with founder Scott Collins confirming the closures last month. The chain, known for its signature mustard-fried patties and Dead Hippie sauce, has shuttered venues in Clapham Junction, Queensway, Islington, Brighton, and Forest Hill, among others.
Financial Struggles and Strategic Restructuring
Founder Scott Collins had previously warned in April 2025 that the business might not turn a profit in the upcoming financial year, even with new openings. A year later, his prediction has materialized, leading to the appointment of BPI Asset Advisory to assess options. Collins attributed the closures to ongoing uncertainties, including economic factors and operational disruptions like tube strikes, which have compounded difficulties for restaurants across London.
MeatLiquor, founded in 2011 by Collins and Yianni Papoutsis, quickly gained fame for its no-nonsense approach to "dude food." At its peak in 2018, the group operated 11 outlets, including notable spots like Meat Mission in Hoxton and Meat Market in Covent Garden. However, recent years have seen a steady decline, with the Leeds location closing in September 2025 after 11 years, as it became cheaper to shut down than remain open.
Which Locations Have Closed and Which Remain Open?
The closures affect several key sites: York Place in Brighton, Northcote Road in Clapham Junction, The Dartmouth Arms in Forest Hill, Upper Street in Islington, Trinity in Leeds, and Queensway. Despite these setbacks, MeatLiquor continues to operate a few remaining venues. Patrons can still enjoy their iconic burgers at Lordship Lane in East Dulwich and Margaret Street in Oxford Circus. Additionally, the sister sports bar Bloodsports in Covent Garden, which opened in February 2025, remains open for business.
This trend is not isolated to MeatLiquor; other major players like Patty&Bun have also announced multiple closures in recent weeks, though they frame it as part of a restructuring effort rather than a permanent exit. The hospitality sector in London is grappling with rising costs, shifting consumer habits, and external pressures, forcing many establishments to reevaluate their operations.
Implications for London's Dining Landscape
The reduction in MeatLiquor's footprint highlights broader issues facing the city's restaurant industry. With venues closing at an alarming rate, diners are encouraged to support their local favorites to help sustain the vibrant culinary culture. As Collins noted, the chain is "getting ahead of things" to avoid forced closures down the line, a sentiment echoed by many in the business.
For now, fans of MeatLiquor's bold flavors can still visit the surviving locations, but the future remains uncertain. This development serves as a stark reminder of the precarious nature of the hospitality world, where even beloved brands must adapt to survive in an ever-changing economic environment.
