Ex-Masterchef star Jamie Fleming’s Alba Bar and Deli suddenly closes just days after winning a major award in latest grim sign for Australia’s hospitality industry
A venue run by an ex-Masterchef star is suddenly closing its doors, just days after winning a major award in the latest grim sign for Australia’s hospitality industry.
Jamie Fleming’s venue Alba Bar and Deli in Burnett Lane, Brisbane announced on Instagram that Saturday evening would be its final opening night.
He competed on season 6 of MasterChef in 2014 and opened the Brisbane location in 20219, shortly before the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Unfortunately, economic pressures and the poor timing of the opening (just before the pandemic) means we have had to make this heartbreaking decision,” the post said.
‘We are a small team and have always tried to provide the best quality service and products.
Jamie Fleming’s (pictured) venue Alba Bar and Deli in Burnett Lane, Brisbane announced on Instagram that Saturday evening would be the last night of the operation
The closure announcement said: ‘We are a small team and have always tried to provide the best quality service and products.’ Examples of the fare are shown
‘Unfortunately, with the prices of everything rising and there being little support, there is only one clear ending.’
Alba’s closure comes just days after it was named Queensland’s best bar by hospitality website Boothby.
The outlet’s farewell statement thanked “everyone who helped bring Alba to life.” From the team members, vendors, friends, and everyone who walked through the door, you helped bring something amazing to life.”
Referring to the very difficult times the sector is facing due to the cost of living, Alba acknowledged others in the industry who are also struggling.
“We have always had tremendous support from those we respect and love most, our peers.
“Without your support Alba would have been just another statistic and instead we were given the opportunity to swing for the fences and keep hitting the crossbar.”
Alba said it had been her pleasure to serve, feed, laugh and dance with each of you.
‘We still don’t know whether we are a bar where you eat well, or a restaurant where you are illuminated. What we do know is that we are Alba and have never been anything else.’
The emotional statement ended with the words: “This won’t be the last you see of us. Promise… Rest.”
Alba Bar and Deli (pictured) said it was ‘a pleasure to serve, feed, laugh and dance with all of you’
The Brisbane location is the latest in a string of high-profile casualties in the restaurant world in recent months.
In May, beloved Sydney restaurant Tetsuya’s announced it was closing permanently after 37 years of delighting Australian foodies.
The gastronomic spot will close its doors for good on July 31, 2024, despite initially hoping to move elsewhere.
Following that blowout, Kylie Kwong revealed she was closing her iconic restaurant Lucky Kwong after 24 years of being open.