Ombra, a trailblazing Italian restaurant on Vyner Street in Bethnal Green, has announced its closure after 15 years, with owners blaming a 'rising tide' of labour costs, rent hikes, and VAT rates. The restaurant, known for its seasonal produce, natural wines, and freshly made pasta, will shut its doors this week, devastating loyal patrons.
Owners cite challenging trading environment
In a statement posted online, owners Mitch, Paolo, and Steve said the 'writing's on the wall' for the hospitality industry. 'In our 15 years at Hackney's canalside we’ve never traded through an environment quite like the one we’re experiencing now,' they said. 'And this from a business that didn’t miss a day of trade during back-to-back COVID lockdowns… In the last couple of years we’ve been consumed by a rising tide of labour costs, utilities, rent hikes, business rate increases and the most stubborn VAT policy in Europe.'
Impact on East London's dining scene
The trio celebrated the 'more diverse, more interesting, more vibrant' dining landscape that has developed in East London since their launch in 2011, but warned this is now under threat. Bars, pubs, and restaurants, along with chef Tom Kerridge, are currently calling on the Labour government to slash the 'crippling' VAT rate to 10%.
Ombra's legacy and future operations
Ombra aimed to 'uphold the spirit of an osteria' by being affordable and accessible. The closure announcement ended on a positive note: 'Since 2011 however we’ve watched how all the things Ombra set out to do have entered the East London vernacular. And many restaurants who’ve embraced the kind of cooking that excites us, we now call neighbours, collaborators and friends.' Wine bar Brillo and bakery Forno, which has locations in Leytonstone, Hackney, and the East End Museum, will continue to operate as normal.
Broader hospitality industry challenges
London's hospitality scene has taken significant hits recently, with both large chains and independent spots closing. This list includes Spaghetti House, most Patty & Bun sites, Holloway's Sambal Shiok, and Leyton-based Queer Brewing.
