Dani Heron, a former MasterChef contestant and co-owner of the Michelin-recommended Scandinavian restaurant OSMA in Greater Manchester, has announced the closure of its Prestwich location, effective February 9th. This decision, made with a mix of sadness and anticipation, comes after nearly five years of operation. While the Prestwich restaurant will cease operations, OSMA’s presence will continue at its kitchen within Exhibition, a food hall located on Peter Street in Manchester city centre. Heron and her business partner, Sofie Stoermann-Nas, cited the persistent challenge of recruiting and retaining experienced staff as a primary factor in the closure. This staffing shortage has led to significant personal sacrifices for the duo, demanding excessive work hours and severely limiting their personal lives. They express hope that the move to the city centre will create a more sustainable business model, offering them a better work-life balance and room for future growth.
The announcement, shared on social media, expressed gratitude to their loyal customer base, acknowledging the significant role they played in OSMA’s journey. Heron and Stoermann-Nas highlighted the community they built, referring to their regular patrons as the “OSMA family,” and emphasized the positive impact these customers had on their perseverance during challenging periods. They also extended heartfelt appreciation to their dedicated staff, acknowledging their exceptional efforts and teamwork despite operating understaffed. The small team’s ability to deliver high-quality service under pressure was recognized and commended. Finally, the owners expressed their gratitude to their landlord, Tony Freeman, for his initial belief in their vision and for providing them with the opportunity to establish OSMA.
The closure marks a significant transition for OSMA, a restaurant inspired by a trip to Oslo and established with the vision of bringing a “hygge haven” to the UK. Since its opening in 2020, OSMA gained popularity for its weekly evolving menus featuring seasonal ingredients, a testament to the culinary creativity of Heron and Stoermann-Nas. The restaurant’s success culminated in its inclusion in the prestigious Michelin Guide in 2024, a significant achievement that solidified its reputation in the culinary scene. The owners now look forward to the next chapter of OSMA’s story, optimistic about the possibilities that the city centre location will offer.
The shift to Exhibition represents a strategic move to alleviate the operational pressures experienced at the Prestwich location. The centralized city centre location may offer a larger pool of potential employees, addressing the chronic staffing shortages that plagued the restaurant. Furthermore, the established infrastructure and shared resources within a food hall environment could streamline operations and reduce overhead costs, contributing to a more sustainable business model. This move signifies a proactive approach by Heron and Stoermann-Nas to adapt to the challenges of the restaurant industry and prioritize their long-term vision for OSMA.
While the closure of the Prestwich location marks the end of an era, it also signifies a new beginning. The move to Manchester city centre allows OSMA to continue serving its dedicated customer base while providing Heron and Stoermann-Nas with the opportunity to refine their business model and pursue their culinary ambitions with a renewed sense of balance and sustainability. The owners expressed excitement about the future and hinted at a farewell celebration at the Prestwich location, encouraging patrons to visit before the final day of service. They also promised to keep their followers updated on social media regarding the transition and future plans.
The story of OSMA highlights the challenges faced by independent restaurants, particularly in a post-pandemic landscape marked by staffing shortages and economic uncertainties. It also underscores the resilience and adaptability of entrepreneurs who navigate these complexities while striving to maintain their vision and passion for their craft. Heron and Stoermann-Nas’s decision to close the Prestwich location and focus on their city centre operation demonstrates a strategic approach to achieving long-term sustainability and growth. The move allows them to preserve the essence of OSMA while creating a more viable future for their culinary venture. Their journey serves as an example of how businesses can evolve and adapt to changing circumstances while remaining true to their core values.
