Harsh sign of the times as much-hyped Lima Nikkei Restaurant & Bar that opened to rave reviews in Sydney CBD shuts down after trading for just six months

Australia’s high cost of living has produced a cool Peruvian fusion restaurant within six months of opening, despite rave reviews.

Lima Nikkei Restaurant & Bar, in the wealthy Dawes Point harbor district of Sydney’s CBD, opened in October 2023 to huge hype.

The unique eatery combined Japanese and Chinese influences with traditional Peruvian cuisine known as Nikkei and Chifa.

Despite the constant positive reviews from customers, the restaurant management confirmed that they were forced to close immediately.

On Instagram, the owner of the 100-seat venue, Luis Guzman, said it was struggling amid high interest rates and inflation, with operating costs becoming too high.

On Instagram, the owner of the 100-seat venue, Luiz Guzman, said it was struggling amid high interest rates and inflation, with operating costs becoming too high.

“Our continually increasing costs of operations, ingredients, rent, etc. simply made it not feasible for us to remain open,” he wrote.

‘Your unwavering love for our food, warm smile and kind words have meant a lot to us and helped us through the most difficult of times.’

He also acknowledged that other restaurants are also feeling the pressure, encouraging diners to book.

‘These are difficult times for everyone, so if you have a favorite venue, try to support it within your means.’

Devastated customers overwhelmingly showed their support for the restaurant and the team.

‘Oh no! This was one of the best dining experiences I’ve had in Sydney,” one person wrote.

‘I loved all the food, drinks and atmosphere. I miss you already,” said another.

‘I had the best food and dining experience here EVER!! I’m going to miss this place dearly, good luck with your future endeavors,” one restaurant wrote.

Other guests were upset that they never tried the food and missed it.

“I really wanted to try it out during my visit to Sydney (from the Outback!),” one person wrote.

Fans of the restaurant will be happy to know that Mr Guzman will still be sharing his unique culinary skills in Sydney.

Lima Nikkei Restaurant & Bar, in the wealthy Dawes Point harbor district of Sydney’s CBD, opened in October 2023 to huge hype

Despite the constant positive reviews from customers, the restaurant management confirmed that they were forced to close immediately

Fans of the restaurant will be happy to know that Luis Guzman will still be sharing his unique culinary skills in Sydney

Lima Bar and Cevicheria, a small, seafood-focused venue in Bondi in Sydney’s east, will launch with a soft opening in mid-January.

Mr Guzman is optimistic about the new Bondi eatery The Daily Telegraph reporting that it will complement its existing Warike restaurant in Surry Hills, Sydney.

A wave of popular restaurants have recently closed due to the current economic climate.

Italian restaurant Andiamo Trattoria closed its premises in Abbotsford, Sydney, in January after failing to negotiate with the landlord.

Japanese all-you-can-eat chain Okami announced in December that it would place 16 of its 50 national restaurants under voluntary management.

Iconic establishment A Tavola, a Sydney pasta restaurant that has been open for 15 years, went bankrupt at the end of 2023.

Other victims in Sydney include Flour Eggs Water Surry Hills, Meatball Haven Palle and home delivery service A Tavola at Home.