The Mulberry, a celebrated Falmouth restaurant helmed by Jay Brady, a protégé of two-Michelin-starred chef Nathan Outlaw, has unexpectedly closed its doors after a three-year run. The announcement, delivered via Facebook on December 27th, cited escalating operational costs and challenging economic conditions as the primary reasons for the closure. Brady expressed his gratitude to the restaurant’s patrons for their support over the past three years, acknowledging the difficult decision with a heavy heart. The closure marks a disheartening end to a promising culinary venture that had garnered significant acclaim within the industry.
The Mulberry had quickly established itself as a culinary gem, earning prestigious accolades including a Michelin Bib Gourmand and two AA rosettes. It was even featured in the Michelin Guide’s top 20 restaurants in the country, a testament to its commitment to high-quality cuisine and exceptional dining experiences. The restaurant specialized in fresh seafood and premium meats, emphasizing locally sourced ingredients. Brady, who honed his skills at the Nathan Outlaw academy as a teenager, brought his passion for Cornish cuisine to life at The Mulberry, crafting a menu that celebrated the region’s rich culinary heritage.
The outpouring of support from loyal customers following the announcement underscored the restaurant’s impact on the local dining scene. Many expressed their sadness at the closure, praising The Mulberry as their “favorite restaurant of all time” and lamenting the loss of its “delicious food.” Others commended Brady’s talent and expressed pride in his achievements, emphasizing that his culinary prowess transcended the physical space of the restaurant. The heartfelt responses reflected the genuine connection The Mulberry had forged with its patrons.
Brady’s journey to culinary excellence began under the tutelage of Nathan Outlaw, a renowned Cornish chef who has graced the screens of popular cooking shows like the BBC’s Great British Menu and Saturday Kitchen. Outlaw, who operates several acclaimed restaurants, including the two-Michelin-starred Restaurant Nathan Outlaw in Port Isaac, Cornwall—the only seafood restaurant in the UK to hold such an accolade—provided Brady with a strong foundation in culinary arts. Brady’s partnership with Harry Cartwright, whom he met while working at The Pig in Harlyn Bay, further solidified his culinary vision and led to the creation of The Mulberry in 2022.
The closure of The Mulberry reflects a broader trend of hardship within the hospitality industry. Rising costs, coupled with challenging economic conditions, have forced many establishments to make difficult decisions. This trend is evident in the recent closures of other notable restaurants in Cornwall, including One Fish Street in St. Ives, owned by chef Bradley Monk, and the three branches of the Spanish chain Ibérica, owned by Michelin-starred chef Nacho Manzano. These closures highlight the precarious situation facing many businesses in the sector.
The Mulberry’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges confronting the restaurant industry. While the restaurant’s closure is a loss for the Falmouth community and the wider culinary world, it also underscores the resilience and talent of individuals like Jay Brady. His culinary journey, marked by both success and adversity, demonstrates the passion and dedication that drive the hospitality industry. As the industry navigates these challenging times, the outpouring of support for The Mulberry serves as a testament to the profound impact restaurants can have on their communities.
