Giorgio Locatelli, the Michelin-starred chef and television personality, has unexpectedly closed his renowned London restaurant, Locanda Locatelli, after a remarkable 23-year run. The announcement, posted on the restaurant’s website, cited reasons “out of our control” for the permanent closure, leaving patrons and the culinary world surprised, especially given the recent bustling New Year’s Eve service. While the specific circumstances remain undisclosed, the statement hinted at future projects, urging followers to stay tuned to social media for updates. This sudden end to an era marks a significant shift for Locatelli, who opened the restaurant with his wife, Plaxy, in 2002.
Locanda Locatelli, situated within the Hyatt Regency, The Churchill on Seymour Street, quickly garnered acclaim, earning a Michelin star just a year after its launch. Over the years, the restaurant became a favored destination for celebrities, hosting luminaries like Kate Winslet, Brad Pitt, Bill Clinton, and Madonna. Its success solidified Locatelli’s reputation as a leading figure in the culinary landscape. The closure announcement sparked an outpouring of disappointment from loyal customers, who shared fond memories and praised the restaurant’s exceptional food and service. Many expressed anticipation for Locatelli’s next venture, while others lamented the loss of a beloved dining institution.
The closure comes as a surprise considering Locatelli’s vibrant career and the restaurant’s enduring popularity. The chef, who appeared on Channel 4’s “Celeb Cooking School” teaching celebrities culinary skills, has a rich history in the culinary world. His journey began in small local restaurants in Italy and Switzerland before he moved to the UK in 1986. He further honed his craft in Paris, working at prestigious establishments like Restaurant Laurent and La Tour d’Argent. This experience laid the foundation for his success with Locanda Locatelli.
Locatelli’s culinary expertise extends beyond the restaurant kitchen. He has authored three cookbooks, sharing his passion and knowledge with a wider audience. His television appearances, including roles on “MasterChef Italia,” “Family Cooking Showdown,” and “Celeb Cooking School,” have further cemented his status as a recognizable figure in the culinary world. On “Celeb Cooking School,” he mentored a diverse group of celebrities, including Kerry Katona, Sam Thompson, Kim Woodburn, and Louie Spence, demonstrating his ability to connect with a wide range of personalities.
The closure of Locanda Locatelli is not the first time the restaurant has faced adversity. In 2014, a gas explosion damaged the building and injured staff members, a challenging event that reportedly led Locatelli to consider closing the restaurant at the time. However, he persevered, continuing to serve patrons for another decade. This resilience underscores the significance of the current closure, signaling a definitive ending to this chapter of his career.
While the reasons behind the closure remain a mystery, the statement’s promise of new projects suggests that Locatelli is not stepping away from the culinary world entirely. His extensive experience, coupled with his television presence and established reputation, positions him well for future endeavors. The closure of Locanda Locatelli marks the end of an era, but it also opens the door for new possibilities, leaving patrons and the culinary community eagerly anticipating what Locatelli will create next. His journey, marked by resilience, passion, and a commitment to culinary excellence, continues to inspire and intrigue.
