Food & Hospitality · Bristol
A round-up of recent hospitality closures and refurbishments across Bristol
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Several long-standing independent food and drink venues in Bristol have closed their doors this month, while two prominent pubs are currently undergoing renovations.
The Bristol hospitality scene has seen significant change throughout October, with a mixture of permanent closures and temporary refurbishments affecting several well-known local establishments.
Among the most notable closures is the New Taj Indian restaurant on Gloucester Road in Horfield. After 36 years of trading, the family-run business ceased operations for the foreseeable future. The owners cited health reasons for their difficult decision to close, expressing their gratitude to the generations of customers who supported them over more than three decades.
In Lawrence Weston, the local community has bid farewell to the Lawrence Weston Fish Bar on Ridingleaze. The takeaway, which had served the neighbourhood for approximately 20 years, closed permanently on 14 October. Owner Jay Choganbaz confirmed the closure was a result of rising operational costs and declining sales. While the site is set to host a new takeaway business under different management, the departure marks the end of a long-term fixture for the local area.
Henleaze has also seen the loss of a popular venue with the closure of Littleshop and Pantry on Northumbria Drive. The family-run deli and cafe, operated by the team behind Littlefrench and 1 York Place, shut its doors on 23 October after six years of service. Founders Freddy and Nessa Bird stated that they felt the time was right to step away, though they expressed a hope that the premises would soon begin a new chapter under owners who share their appreciation for the neighbourhood.
In the burger sector, Coq on Whiteladies Road has closed indefinitely less than a year after opening. Despite the success of the brand's original site in Chippenham, the Bristol branch encountered financial difficulties that led to its sudden closure this month.
While these permanent losses have impacted the local landscape, two major pubs are currently undergoing refurbishments intended to improve facilities ahead of the festive season. The Lodekka, located on the A4 Bath Road in Brislington, closed on 19 October to facilitate a six-figure investment in its interior and exterior. The venue is currently recruiting staff with plans to reopen to the public at some point in November.
Similarly, The Shakespeare Tavern on Prince Street in Bristol city centre has closed temporarily for a major renovation. As one of the city's long-serving ale houses, housed in an 18th-century building, the pub is undergoing works to modernise its facilities while preserving its historical character. The management plans to reopen the venue next month with improved event space on the first floor and refurbished bar areas. Customers are advised to check local listings for confirmation of the official reopening date as the project progresses.
Source: Bristol Post — Food & Drink · View original