Shock closure of Simpsons restaurant in Birmingham

Simpsons, one of Birmingham’s leading restaurants, is to close its doors unless a last-minute buyer can be found.

Chef patron Andreas Antona announced his shock move after putting the Georgian Grade II listed Edgbaston premises on the market a year-and-a-half ago following 32 years in business.

“Sadly, none of the possible deals have reached a successful conclusion and I have to blame the economy and lack of action from the government,” he said.

Simpsons, Premier members of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, have held a Michelin star since 1999.

Andreas (pictured) added: “A lot of the blame is with Brexit. The pool of talent in Europe was largely blocked to us and there haven’t been enough qualified people for us to take on.

“Costs have just continued to rocket and local and national government policies have made it impossible to carry on. I’m hoping there might be some last-minute interest but the way everything stand economically, things do not look bright.” 

He added: “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 will no choice but to close the doors.

“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.”

He added: “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.”

Simpson’s sister restaurant, The Cross at Kenilworth, remains open.