A restaurant loved by diners with a passion for good food has suddenly closed its doors. The announcement that Paris Bar & Restaurant, in the Lace Market, had gone was greeted with dismay.
It comes less than three months after sister restaurant Petit Paris, in Kings Walk, closed after 27 years. Both restaurants were operated by Antony Crossman and his nephew, executive chef James Crossman, whose 22-year kitchen career included a stint under Gordon Ramsay at Claridges, where he was part of a team that gained a Michelin star in 2002.
Increased operating costs and the cost of living crisis meaning fewer diners have been blamed. Despite their own sad loss, the duo urged people to dine out in the city entre and support independent restaurants during "these difficult times."
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Paris opened in High Pavement in August 2019. It was not a traditional French restaurant, but one which served food inspired by whatever was fashionable in the capital. A recent menu featured starters of quail with sauce vierge and steak tartare and mains of lamb rump with boulangere potato and pan-fried halibut.
Last year the owners swept to victory when Channel Four series Come Dine With Me focussed on professionals, with Paris beating Nottinghamshire pubs, The Plough in Normanton-on-the-Wolds, and the Red Lion in Thurgarton.
The closure was announced on social media, in a post saying: "It is with tremendous sadness that we have had to close our doors for the last time. The widely reported economic pressures that small, independent businesses are having to deal with during this prolonged cost of living crisis, have proved too much and the subsequent losses too great.
"A combination of hugely increased operating costs combined with a reduced number of diners has left the business, regretfully, with no other choice. We would like to thank our guests that supported us and would encourage them to continue to dine out in our city centre. Those restaurants that remain really do need you and we wish them success during these difficult times."
Hundreds of people expressed dismay on the Facebook post. One said: "Absolutely heartbroken for you. Such an amazing restaurant. Had the best meals ever with you."
"Really sorry to hear this a lovely place to eat great venue Lovely surroundings attentive staff a great loss to the city," said another
Many said it was one of their favourite restaurants, complimenting both the food and staff: "I am so sad to see this post. This has been one of our favourite restaurants for years even through the pandemic. Beautiful atmosphere, gorgeous food and lovely staff. All the best to you all. You have been part of birthdays, anniversaries and many happy times."
